TAUNTON Deane MP Rebecca Pow has backed under-fire Prime Minister Theresa May amid 'unhelpful' speculation over a leadership challenge.

Mrs May has endured a torrid week, with a conference speech beset by throat problems and a P45 prank, which has culminated in former Conservative party chairman Grant Shapps claiming he has a list of around 30 MPs who want her to step down.

But Ms Pow, who spoke at the conference ahead of Mrs May on Wednesday, said: “What is important is that this Government continues to run the country with strength and stability and any rumours about potential changes in leadership are totally unhelpful.


READ MORE: Rebecca Pow speaks at Tory party conference - and claims Labour constituencies 'have no soil'...


"I have not received a single comment from anyone asking for our Prime Minster to step aside and indeed I have had many comments praising her dedication and resilience and shall continue to support her as I have from the outset.”

Somerset County Gazette:
COLD: Theresa May has endured a difficult week. PICTURE:Peter Byrne/PA Wire