BRITAIN can look forward to a bright future now a Brexit deal with the European Union has passed through Parliament, Colchester’s MP has said.

On Wednesday, MPs voted overwhelmingly, by 521 votes to 73, to adopt the Brexit trade agreement, which was finally agreed on Christmas Eve.

All Conservative MPs bar two backed the deal, whilst Labour also voted for the trade agreement.

Colchester’s MP Will Quince, who campaigned to leave the EU during the referendum in 2016, said the move brought an end to years of uncertainty and marked an “exciting new era” for Britain.

He said: “It is a very exciting time for our country

“But also for us as Members of Parliament. I stood in the 2019 General Election on a platform of delivering Brexit and getting a deal with the EU.

“That promise has been delivered on and now we look forward to an exciting new era for the UK.”

Mr Quince said his constituents had undoubtedly become “tired” of the process since 2016, but said now was the time to come together to make a success of Brexit.

He said: “In 2019 Boris said enough is enough and I think he spoke for the majority of people in the UK.

“To his great credit the Prime Minister has delivered on everything he said he would.

“The whole of my party voted for this deal apart from two MPs who abstained so there is a united view it is time to move on.

“Whether you are a Leaver or a Remainer we all believe in Britain and whatever the outcome of the referendum I knew we would come together to make it work and ensure our country thrives.”

He added: “It is for all of us to make that happen but I am really optimistic.”

All of Essex’s Conservative MPs voted in favour of the trade deal in Parliament.

Witham and Home Secretary MP Priti Patel, whose constituency covers Stanway, said: “This deal takes back control of our money, borders, laws, trade and fishing.

“Boris Johnson has delivered on what the British people voted for. It is time to take full advantage of the fantastic opportunities available to us as a newly and truly independent nation.”