Tory manifesto plans could be scrapped in DUP deal, says MP Mike Wood

Mike Wood said it was vital that the Prime Minister formed a government 'sooner rather than later' and admitted that some manifesto pledges would have to be 'dropped and reviewed'.

It came as it emerged that the Queen's Speech - which sets out the Government's legislative programme - may have to be delayed to give the Conservatives more time to negotiate with the DUP.

Last night Dudley South MP Mr Wood was present at the Prime Minister's crunch meeting with the influential 1922 Committee of backbench MPs.

Asked if manifesto plans to scrap the triple lock on pensions, means-test the winter fuel allowance, repeal the fox hunting ban and build more grammar schools were likely to be ditched, Mr Wood told the Express & Star: "There are elements in the manifesto that will clearly be part of the talks with the DUP.

"One suspects that some of the areas mentioned there could come up and compromises will be sought in order to get the deal through.

"The reality of not having an overall majority is that some parts of the manifesto will have to be dropped and reviewed."

However, Downing Street has confirmed that the target to cut net immigration to the tens of thousands would be maintained.

The Queen's Speech was due to take place on June 19 but could be put back for several days as talks between Government Chief Whip Gavin Williamson and the DUP continue.

The Prime Minister's spokesman said: "The talks are ongoing with the DUP. Progress is being made.

"Once that process is complete then I'm sure there will be discussions in terms of the Queen's Speech."

Mr Wood, who increased his majority in Dudley South to 7,730 in the General Election, added: "I think both sides have gone into the talks in good faith.

"The DUP don't want to see Jeremy Corbyn as prime minister any more than I do, so I am confident something will be worked out sooner rather than later."

On a busy day for Mrs May she also held a meeting with her newly tweaked Cabinet that saw the expected deal with the DUP discussed.

It featured newly-appointed Environment Secretary Michael Gove, who the Prime Minister's spokesman said had been recalled because he had 'a wealth of experience' and would be 'an excellent addition to the team'.