North East MPs have had a range of reactions to the Prime Minister's announcement there will be a general election on July 4.

Politicians from across the region have greeted the sudden announcement with everything from jubilation to frustration.

Dehenna Davison, the Conservative MP for Bishop Auckland, vented on social media about the plans she would no longer be able to carry out because of the Prime Minister's decision. 

She said: "I think my team and I were prepared for Autumn, so emotionally this is a lot to digest.

"We had so much more to do, and thought we had a little more time. Alas. The brilliant causes we have been working on we will continue to support from beyond Parliament.

"There are no words or sentiments to express how grateful I am to my team for their support from day one. No MP would be able to operate without the team sitting behind them and I owe them so much. They truly are my second family.

"And let’s not forget, though some may celebrate the departure of certain MPs, when we go, our staff also are left with uncertain futures. Needless to say, I’ll support them as much as I can through this tumultuous period.

"Being an MP has been bloody hard, but it has also been the greatest honour of my life, and I remain ever grateful to those across the Bishop Auckland constituency who put their faith in me.

"I regret that I haven’t been able to deliver all that I hoped to - particularly bringing A&E services back to Bishop Auckland Hospital. But I will support my successor, of whatever Party, to ensure local healthcare is improved to the level that local residents deserve.

"For the next few weeks, we will be trying to wrap up as much as we can, and helping as many more constituents as possible until July 4."

Mary Kelly Foy, the Labour MP for the City of Durham, initially reacted to the news through a short message and an image:

"It's time. #Labour2024."

The Northern Echo:

She continued: "The failing prime minister has finally decided to throw in the towel and call the general election that people in Durham, and all around the country, have been crying out for.

"Over the last 14 years, successive Tory Governments have obliterated our NHS and public services, schools have crumbled, knife crime has rocketed and foodbank use is through the roof.

"Sick and disabled people have been demonised, our shores have been flooded by criminal gangs, we have record levels of child poverty, local authorities are going bankrupt, our high streets are dying and trust in politicians is at an all time low due to the sheer volume of Tory sleaze that has been oozing out of Westminster. 

"This country is on it's knees. It is time for change. 

"The Labour Party is ready for Government. We have the policies, the passion and the people to make the positive changes needed so our country, and it's people, can thrive once again. We are ready to give Britain its future back."

Peter Gibson, Conservative MP for Darlington, was keen to emphasise how he would love to continue to serve the town he has "grown to love".

He said: "From day one in December 2019 I have put my heart and soul into representing Darlington, giving it my all, and securing unprecedented investment for Darlington.

"I have worked on improvements in jobs, training, education and infrastructure.

"I stand on my personal track record of delivering for Darlington and I look forward to the campaign ahead.

"I hope to continue to serve the town and countryside of this place I have grown to love."

Paul Howell, Conservative MP for Sedgefield (which will become Newton Aycliffe and Spennymoor at the election due to a boundary change), wanted to highlight the troubles the country has gone through in recent years.

He said: "This election will be fought on what happens next and what voters in my part of the world know is that our local Conservative MP's have worked harder, engaged better and delivered more for the North East than our Labour predecessors ever did.

"When they then consider that nationally we are recovering from the trauma of Covid and are dealing with the impact of war in Europe but still delivering economic recovery I am optimistic that they will recognise that Labour have nothing to offer them.

"Instead give us the opportunity to continue to work hard for them.

"I sincerely hope that the work I and colleagues have done will encourage my electorate to vote Conservative and I would love the opportunity to continue the work.

"I am proud to have been given the opportunity to start."

Recently elected North East mayor Kim McGuinness said: "It’s happening. Our whole North East will welcome the chance this General Election brings.

"It’s time we elect a Labour government who will invest in good jobs, rebuild public services and hand power to regions like ours so we can fight child poverty and create opportunity."

Simon Clarke, Conservative MP for Middlesbrough South and East Cleveland, had a bracing message for his constituents.

He said: "Today, we heard the news that the General Election has been called. 

"This is our opportunity to showcase all the positive changes happening on Teesside under the Conservatives. 

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"We've worked tirelessly to bring transformative projects to our community, from revitalising our airport and establishing a freeport to bringing steelmaking back. 

"I urge you to put your trust in me to continue delivering these vital projects alongside Ben Houchen and our dedicated team."

Andy McDonald, Labour MP for Middlesbrough, was very succinct in his reaction: "Bring it on."