Hexham’s MP Guy Opperman has backed prime minister, Boris Johnson’s successful bid to hold a general election on December 12.

The legislation was approved by MPs on Tuesday, and Mr Opperman was among a majority who voted for the bill.

The bill was passed by 438 votes to 20, with Mr Johnson arguing that it would give him the chance to break the Brexit deadlock in Parliament.

Labour said the election for them was not just about Brexit, but also putting an end to austerity.

The Liberal Democrats see an election victory as a chance to stop Brexit from happening at all.

Mr Opperman said: "The current deadlock in Parliament cannot continue. I am pleased that finally - at the fourth time of asking - Jeremy Corbyn has had the courage to face the voters.

"This election will be close. I look forward to a clean campaign. I will do everything I can to work hard to get better school buildings and pupil funding, protect our greenbelt, create more and better jobs, get even more funding for our NHS and protect our environment."