The MPs for Harrow have welcomed plans for a general election later this year.

This morning, Prime Minister Theresa May called for a snap general election on June 8, after fearing divisions at Westminster risked getting in the way of Brexit negotiations.

She said: "We want a deep and special partnership between a strong and successful European Union and a United Kingdom that is free to chart its own way in the world.

"At this moment of enormous national significance there should be unity here in Westminster, but instead there is division. The country is coming together, but Westminster is not."

Labour MP Gareth Thomas, who has represented Harrow West since 1997, believes the election will be a chance to bring to light issues such as the NHS that have previously been overshadowed by Brexit talks.

He said: “Day after day this Tory Government is ignoring the growing crisis in our NHS, schools and police whilst all their attention is taken up by Brexit.

“I grew up in Harrow and have been privileged to represent my home area in Parliament.

“I have always seen it as my role to be a champion for Harrow in Westminster, and this general election is an opportunity to make sure Harrow has an MP who will fight for Harrow’s best interests.”

Bob Blackman, the Conservative MP for Harrow East, said the decision for an election will help towards building a "prosperous future outside of the EU".  

He said: “While I am as surprised as everybody else that a snap General Election has been called, I welcome the opportunity to go back to the people of Harrow East and seek their approval for the work I have been doing on their behalf, both at home and in Parliament.

"In particular, I am hopeful this will ensure my Homelessness Reduction Bill will receive Royal Assent shortly since Parliament will need to prorogue early for the campaign, which will be wonderful.

“I believe the Conservatives under Theresa May have the right plan for the upcoming Brexit negotiations and it is right to go to the country and seek to renew our mandate.

"Our nation is on the precipice of a more internationalist, global-facing and prosperous future outside of the EU and this election gives us all a chance to play our part in backing this renewal.”