The conservatives have selected a candidate to replace an MP who lost the whip for voting against the Prime Minister’s Brexit deal.

Former justice secretary David Gauke lost the whip in September for voting against Boris Johnson’s Brexit Deal.

Gagan Mohindra, an Essex County Council cabinet member for finance and an Epping Forest District councillor, been chosen as the Conservative candidate for South West Hertfordshire.

In a statement on Twitter Mr Gauke, 48, thanked to everyone who had supported since he was named MP for the constituency in 2003.

He said: “I appreciate that my views on Brexit do not accord with the majority in the modern Conservative party and that our paths have diverged. I regret that it is no longer possible for me to remain true to my principles and continue as your Conservative Member for parliament.

“It has been a pleasure to serve all of the people of South West Hertfordshire for nearly 15 years as a member of parliament. Whatever the future may hold, I am immensely grateful to you for giving me that opportunity.”

He also confirmed he is considering standing as an independent.

Mr Mohindra stood in North Tyneside in 2010 general election, finishing third in a traditionally strong Labour seat.