The last few weeks have been less difficult than the media would have you believe. Yes there have been passionate divergences of view amongst fellow Conservatives, but for most of us, as important as winning, has been maintaining friendships and alliances across the referendum divide.
I have good friends and allies who campaigned passionately to Remain: George Freeman, Seema Kennedy MP Richard Benyon, Nick Herbert, Jo Churchill MP, among them – all splendid and principled politicians who I respect and admire. It is ludicrous to think that we will not unite in a heartbeat, now the polls have closed. Together we are compelled to focus on the enormous challenges that lie ahead for this country, in or out of the EU.
United in our efforts, we are the only prospect for progressive, liberal, centrist government for Britain as she strides confidently into the 21st century.