OUTGOING Copeland MP Jamie Reed claims his hands have been tied politically as Brexit looms.

Mr Reed has spoken about his shock resignation to become head of development and community relations at Sellafield Ltd.

The 43-year-old defended his dramatic job change, citing family considerations and building upon his work as MP.

And he said: "Sellafield is an opportunity to do more for the community than I could do as a Member of Parliament."

He said "everything is tied up in Brexit" – and claimed that whatever politicians want to talk about in parliament is affected by the move to leave the European Union.

"It's just the reality of where we are," he added.

The father-of-four said there were no job descriptions for an MP's everyday role, and although they have influence and a voice, they have no formal power.

Mr Reed said: "There are no levers in parliament for politicians to pull and achieve an instant result.

"The government of the day calls the shots."

Mr Reed said, during his 12 years as MP, he had been "trying to give full attention to all 360 degrees of issues".

But now he wants to continue to help the community and industry of west Cumbria through his new role at Sellafield.

Mr Reed has been criticised by some for resigning as major campaigns including health battle on.

But he defended his actions, claiming as the "spotlight will be on Copeland" for the by-election, it will also throw the needs of Copeland – including health services – into the spotlight.

He continued to refute claims that he resigned due to strained relations with Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn.

He said: "I believe that any Labour government is better than the Conservatives."

And he and Mr Corbyn get on on "a personal level".

A writ will have to be moved by Parliament at the end of January for a by-election to be called, which is expected to be fiercely fought, for a new MP.

Mr Reed would not highlight any individuals as stand-out candidates, but said: "A lot of names are being put into the frame.

"There is some brilliant names in there. There are some names in there that could do a fantastic job in Copeland.

"It's very exciting."