A DORSET MP is calling for stronger leadership to deal with the big issues the country is facing.

South Dorset MP Richard Drax called on Prime Minister David Cameron to take charge and put a Conservative stamp on issues such as immigration and crime.

His comments come as the Queen outlined the Government’s plans for the year ahead in the Houses of Parliament yesterday, which included controversial legislation on House of Lords reform.

Conservative backbenchers, many of whom are strongly opposed to the potential changes, published an “Alternative Queen’s Speech”, laying out their own proposals including demands to cut tax and a referendum on repatriating powers from Brussels.

Tory MP Mr Drax said: “I was one of those MPs that decided to sign up to it.

“The main reason is that our country needs, frankly like never before, strong leadership and a clear and very precise direction of travel.

“There are too many big issues like the EU – which is about to implode – immigration, crime, etcetera, which as Conservatives we feel there should be a strong narrative about.

“I believe the public is fed up with talk. What they want is action. They want their politicians to do what they were elected to do.

“I am not for one minute saying we should oust David Cameron. I am just telling him, as a back bencher – one of many saying this – that taking the country forward in a rather haphazard way we are doing is not good enough, and the solution is very simple.”

Bournemouth West MP Conor Burns said the alternative speech had some value in stimulating debate.

He said the coalition agreement had required Parliament to take up time with issues such as House of Lords reform when he would have preferred it to concentrate on removing regulation which could get in the way of economic recovery.

He said his party had to set out a distinctively Conservative position ahead of the general election in 2015.

Annette Brooke, Lib Dem MP for Mid Dorset and North Poole, said: “I do believe the coalition has got to concentrate on growth in the economy.

“I’m pleased with the emphasis on families, especially the help for children with special needs.

Asked whether she believed the coalition between the Lib Dems and Conservative parties was working, she said: “I think it is working at different levels.

“Admittedly there are aspects of it which are difficult. It is such a long time since we have had a coalition and both sides want their basic principles upheld. It’s down to give and take.”