The leader of the Conservative group on Cheshire East Council has called on her party to put a new leader in place as soon as possible to bring national finances back under control.

Cllr Janet Clowes was speaking shortly after Liz Truss quit after just 44 days in office, making her the shortest-serving prime minister in British history.

In a statement read to the nation outside Downing Street the PM said the leadership election would be completed 'within the next week'.

She will remain as prime minister until her successor has been chosen.

Cllr Clowes told the Local Democracy Reporting Service: "After the political turbulence of the past few weeks, the resignation of Liz Truss is not unexpected.

"In the light of ongoing national and international pressures, together with Russia's war against Ukraine, it is imperative that a new, effective leadership is identified, at pace. This is essential in order to bring national finances back under control and to restore economic stability, in line with the chancellor's financial statement and the next OBR (office for budget responsibility) report, both due on October 31.

"In the meantime, irrespective of Westminster, local Conservative councillors like myself remain wholly committed to working hard to meet the needs of our residents within the constraints of the Labour/Independent-led Cheshire East Council."