A TEESSIDE MP has joined calls to enable Parliament to carry on digitally after the Easter recess.

Stockton North MP Alex Cunningham said it was "critical" that he and his colleagues were able to hold the Government to account and question ministers during the pandemic.

More than 100 MPs have signed the letter by Newcastle MP Chi Onwurah, which called for a "digital parliament".

Mr Cunningham said: "These are challenging times and we all have our part to play. My constituents in Stockton North are following the government's advice to stay at home. MPs need to be able to both represent their constituents in Parliament and stay safe.

"I recognise there are security issues for a digital parliament but it is critical that MPs are able to hold the government to account.

"Currently that is a job left to the media at a very occasional news conference and whilst they do a good job, they can't offer the level of scrutiny that MPs can.

"Whilst I recognise the Government is trying hard to deal with a very complex situation, daily we see ministers changing direction, failing to provide adequately for our NHS and making contradictory claims about all manner of things from the testing of NHS staff to the advice to people who have found themselves out of work with no income."

"A digital Parliament will ensure that we can maintain our democratic traditions and allow me to continue to speak up for the people of Stockton North. They have had to make huge changes in their lives quickly to follow the government guidance, there is no reason we cannot do the same. Parliament must lead by example and ensure a voice for the people in the time they need it most."