CONSERVATIVE MPs from Worcestershire have poured scorn on the idea that there might be a challenge to Theresa May’s leadership of the party.

National press reports have suggested that 40 backbench MPs have written to Graham Brady, the chairman of the influential backbench Conservative group the 1922 Committee about their dissatisfaction with the Prime Minister.

If Mr Brady receives 48 letters that would trigger a leadership challenge.

But backbench MP for Mid-Worcestershire Nigel Huddleston thinks the figure is exaggerated.

He said: “There is absolutely no enthusiasm for a leadership election.

“There may some people, both arch-Brexiters and arch-remainers who are dissatisfied with Theresa May’s strategy, but that’s because I think they’ve misunderstood how Brexit will work.

“People might complain in conversation, but that’s a long way from a leadership bid. None of my friends in Parliament have written to Graham Brady and I’d be astonished if the true number of letters was anything near 40.”

As government ministers, Worcester MP Robin Walker and West Worcestershire MP Harriett Baldwin would be expected to support their boss. And they did

Mr Walker, a minister at the Brexit department DExEUsaid: “This is all just speculation. The Prime Minister has shown real leadership in establishing a way forward to ensuring a smooth Brexit for business and the economy.

“We will set out our policies on transitional arrangements and that will silence her critics."

West Worcestershire MP Harriett Baldwin, a minister at the Department for International Development said: “I backed Theresa May from the get go after the referendum as I know we need “a bloody difficult woman” in charge to lead the negotiations on exiting the EU. She is doing a great job."