Jon Cruddas has called Theresa May’s decision to call a snap general election “policy chaos”.

The MP for Dagenham and Rainham criticised the prime minister’s claims that it would be the only way to guarantee stability ahead of Brexit.

He said: “All I see is policy chaos and an angry electorate. She says this is an election about Brexit but until now has said she cannot tell us her plans for Brexit as this would give away her negotiating strategy.”

Mr Cruddas went on to say that Labour would be “ready” for the June 8 election if it is backed by the necessary two thirds of MPs.

He said: “The choice is simple: chaos under the Tories, or a Labour led society that works for working people, and fights for the best possible deal in the aftermath of our exit from the EU.”

MP for Barking and Dagenham Margaret Hodge said she would be seeking re-election and was “looking forward to being out on the campaign trail again”.

“I have worked tirelessly to listen to residents and deliver on issues that really matter to you like sorting out local parking concerns and getting the number 5 bus to go to Queen’s hospital,” she said.

The surprise election announcement by Theresa May’s Tory government was made this morning just after 11am.

Mrs May informed the Queen of her decision by phone yesteday, according to Downing Street representatives.

Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn welcomed the decision along with other opposition leaders but Scotland’s first minister Nicola Sturgeon called the move a “huge political miscalculation”.

MP for Barking and Dagenham Margaret Hodge has also been contacted for comment.