A TORY MP was condemned over his criticism of the Speaker at a packed meeting of Labour Party members.

James Duddridge was criticised for his call for the removal of John Bercow after Mr Bercow’s statement on the planned visit of Donald Trump to the UK.

The Labour Party members at the Rochford and Southend East ward passed a resolution at the meeting.

It said: “The people of Rochford and Southend East elected James Duddridge to Parliament to defend the interest of local constituents, not to promote the interest of the President of the United States.

“We should formally communicate, as a constituency party, that Mr Duddridge should concentrate on defending the well-being of the people of this constituency rather than expressing his personal views on international issues that are beyond his remit.”

Martin Berry, Secretary of Rochford and Southend East Labour Party, said: “Mr Duddridge has done very little for his constituents during his 11 years in office and is now making speeches in Parliament and in broadcasts on a matter that has no direct benefit or effect for the people who elected him.

“If he is unwilling to devote himself to working on issues that directly affect the people of Rochford and Southend East, then he should stand down.

“James Duddridge is one of very few MPs who have indicated they lack confidence in the Speaker of the House of Commons - very many people in the Southend and Rochford area definitely lack confidence in James Duddridge.”