JAMES Gray was last night re-elected as MP for North Wiltshire, receiving 57.2 per cent of the vote.

The result came as no surprise locally however the national outcome turned heads, with the Conservatives making significant gains.

The Standard spoke to Mr Gray following his re-election.

“It’s been a superb night for the Conservatives nationally taking a majority,” said Mr Gray.

“All of the pundits said it was simply impossible so it just goes to show you shouldn’t listen to polls.

“There’s only one poll that counts.”

“What this was about is people know the Conservatives have done a fantastic job over the five years.

“But the job is only half done.

“The economy is going in the right direction but we’re not out of the woods yet.

“We’ve not yet achieved what we want to achieve and people see that.”

While the Conservatives made gains, it was a terrible night for Labour and the Liberal Democrats, as Mr Gray was quick to point out.

“After last night Labour is in disarray,” he said.

“It’s also been an appalling night for the Lib Dems that have been wiped out entirely in the south west, not only losing seats but their votes as well.”

When asked what the Conservatives priorities would be during their next term, Mr Gray said: “Clearly the economy is our focus; we have started to sort that first.

“During the last five years we’ve created two million new jobs, seen growth in the economy and record low interest rates.

“Certain aspects are going well, but we’re only half way there.

“We still have to conquer the debt issue and reduce the deficit.”

With a considerable mandate from his constituents, Mr Gray insists that his role is to represent their views in Parliament rather than focus on local issues.

“An MP’s job is to represent local people in Parliament,” he said.

“Saying I’m going to do such and such and pretend I have executive authority is arrogant.

“My job is to influence Parliament for the benefit of my constituents.”