The people of Britain - and Louth & Horncastle - have spoken clearly and I respect that result.

Although I was in favour of our continued membership of the European Union, mine was just one vote like that of everyone else.

The task ahead of me now is to play my part in maintaining the United Kingdom, in continuing to rebuild our economy and to represent the expressed views of my Constituents in effecting the disengagement of the UK from the EU in the most beneficial manner for all of us.

It will largely happen under a new Prime Minister and I wish to record my thanks to David Cameron for his leadership and achievements, not least in implementing the pledge to let the voters decide on our future in Europe.

They have now done so and I shall do my very best to abide by their wishes.