Statement: New Prime Minister

Central Scotland MSP, Monica Lennon, said: “Liz Truss is neither a fresh start or a change in direction. Only an early general election will give people the choice that they deserve about how best to steer the country through this crisis.

“As the longest-serving Cabinet Minister, the new Prime Minister has had collective responsibility for the cruelty and chaos that has defined the Tories in government these past 12 years.

“While the Tories have meandered through the summer with an absent Prime Minister, the cost of living crisis has tightened its grip and millions of people face being plunged into poverty.

“An immediate energy price freeze is needed, alongside serious action to support people struggling with rising food, housing and transport bills.

“If the new Prime Minister needs help in understanding the gravity of the situation, I’d be happy to take them round Lanarkshire to see first-hand the impact the lack of government support is having on residents and businesses here.”