Theresa Villiers MP has issued the following message on the European referendum:
"This country took a momentous decision on Thursday. I campaigned for a vote to leave in order to restore democratic control over making our laws in this country. I believe we have made the right decision and that we can look forward to a bright future outside the EU.
But I also appreciate that this issue has divided the country and that those who voted remain will be disappointed and concerned. It is now important that we try to bridge the divisions that have emerged by listening to the views of both leave and remain voters as we prepare for negotiations for our exit from the EU. I would like to reassure all of my constituents who voted remain that their voices will be heard.
I want to reassure remain supporters that leave voters don't want to ‘pull up the drawbridge’ and isolate this country. Brexit does not mean that we stop cooperating with our neighbours on matters of mutual concern, far from it. We on the leave side have a forward looking vision of a modern, inclusive, tolerant and diverse UK engaging with the wider world as well as with Europe. Friendly cooperation with neighbouring countries will always be the right thing to do and this will continue on a wide range of areas.
I was very saddened when the Prime Minister announced he would step down on Friday. I wish he had felt able to stay but I understand why he felt he had to announce his departure. But he was absolutely clear with the Cabinet this morning that the Government will provide stability as we continue with delivering our manifesto and the programme we set out in the Queen’s speech. We will also steer a course through the vital work which needs to be done to start the process of carving out a new relationship with our European neighbours.
We will engage widely as we take the negotiation forward including with the business community and devolved administrations. We are determined that our new relationship with Europe will ensure that the UK continues to be an excellent place to invest and export to both our EU neighbours and to the rest of the world. I believe that will open up new opportunities, particularly for young people.
Lastly I would like to thank everyone who voted leave on Thursday and to the dedicated team of helpers who campaigned for Vote Leave in Barnet. I would also like to thank everyone who has contacted me in the days since the referendum took place to express their views on the dramatic events of recent days."