We were all stunned and deeply saddened to have learned of Her Majesty’s sudden death last evening.

Her Majesty has been such a constant in so many of our lives that we could not imagine her ever not being there to guide and lead us as our Sovereign.

She led a life devoted to public service. She set an example not just to those in public life, but to all of us: how to behave, how to help others, how to bring people together and make people happy.

She was the mother of the Nation, the founder of the Commonwealth and the senior stateswoman of the globe. The world shares in our grief.

We should reflect on her life over coming days and be thankful that we have had her to guide us this past 70 years.

My sincere condolences to the Royal Family on the loss of their, and our, matriarch and monarch.

God Save the King.

Rt Hon Philip Dunne MP