ConservativeHome's Seats & Candidates blog

Another Labour MP quits

On Saturday we noted that Chris Mullins was quitting the Sunderland Central seat.

We learn today that another Labour MP - David Taylor is also quitting.

These are both signs that Labour MPs - forbidden by Labour rules from 'chicken running' to safer seats - are, perhaps, fearful of losing their seats when opinion polls are putting the Conservatives so far ahead.

In any case it's good news for Lee Martin in Sunderland and Andrew Bridgen in Leicestershire NW.  Both will find it easier to unseat a Labour candidate without any incumbency advantage.

Do email us if you hear of other MPs 'standing down'.

Andrew Bridgen selected for Leicestershire NW

Former Royal Marine officer Andrew Bridgen, 42, was selected in NW Leicestershire last night. A local candidate, Andrew runs a family produce business in Measham.

The losing finalists were Sharon Buckle, who was also in the South Derbyshire final on Tuesday,  and Rowena Mattu.

David Taylor currently holds the seat for Labour with a majority of 4,477.