BACKBENCH MPs have faced Theresa May for the first time since the Conservative Party's disastrous General Election result.

The Prime Minister addressed the party's 1922 Committee and apologised for the campaign, which saw her lose an overall majority and form a Government propped up by the controversial Democratic Unionist Party from Northern Ireland.

Julian Sturdy, MP for York Outer, said he was confident the Prime Minister would be able to deliver a strong Government, and reiterated his desire for party MPs to avoid any internal squabbling.

He said: "It was positive and a lot more positive than I thought it was going to be, if I'm being brutally honest.

"There was a bit of reflection about what happened and the lessons learned about the campaign, and reflection over seats and colleagues we had lost and how the party needs to connect more with the public."

Kevin Hollinrake, MP for Thirsk and Malton, backed Theresa May to take the party forward into the looming Brexit negotiations on Monday.

He said: "It was an excellent performance.

"It was crucial she came in and spoke to to the backbenchers and take responsibility for the campaign that was unfortunately not the one she expected.

"She did that and was very confident, humble and apologetic about where things had gone wrong and the difficulties we now face as a country and as a Government.

"The room was very supportive of her as she came in and throughout the meeting.

"We know it's absolutely critical we get on with the negotiations and move forward, and the room was supportive of that position."

Nigel Adams, MP  for Selby and Ainsty, asked the Prime Minister about the party's failure to convert some Labour seats in Yorkshire and the north east into Conservative ones, and urged her to reinforce the message that they are the party of aspiration.

He said: "It was a triumph from the Prime Minister and she got overwhelming support from the party and two standing ovations.

"We need to reinforce the message that under a Conservative Government people can get on and climb the ladder.

"She took on board everything I said and was completely committed to re-establishing our party of aspiration."