Former Hitchin and Harpenden MP Peter Lilley is to join the House of Lords after being nominated by Prime Minister Theresa May for a peerage.

The 74-year-old, who was deputy leader of the Conservative Party between 1997 and 1999, stepped down prior to the 2017 General Election after 34 years as an MP – first under the St Albans consituency, and latterly Hitchin & Harpenden following boundary changes.

Mr Lilley’s successor, fellow Conservative Bim Afolami, says he is looking forward to working with the one-time Shadow Chancellor of the Exchequer in Parliament.

“I’m always conscious of the legacy that Peter left to this constituency,” said the MP.

“Peter devoted 34 years to representing local people in the House of Commons, and he will now be able to serve us in the House of Lords. I’m delighted that I will now have the opportunity to work with Peter in Parliament, and I think he has a great role to play in shaping this country’s future.”

Matt Stephens, co-chair of the Hitchin & Harpenden Conservative Association, added: “This is tremendous news. Peter has worked tirelessly in government and in opposition, fighting for the interests of this constituency and this country.

“I’m sure that Peter has been promoted so that he can bring his experience and wisdom into the House of Lords, particularly on matters such as Brexit and international trade. Congratulations from me and from all of the Officers of Hitchin & Harpenden Conservatives.”