I took the decision this afternoon to put my name to an open letter that is being prepared for presentation to the Labour Party’s ruling National Executive Committee this week. The letter confirms the outrage that many activists, councillors and PPCs (prospective parliamentary candidates) feel over MPs’ expenses. In particular, the letter urges the NEC  to facilitate a mechanism for CLPs (constituency Labour parties) to reopen the selection of their parliamentary candidate. I believe it is vital for the health of our local parties and democracy that local members are given the opportunity to look again at their sitting MP’s candidature. It is local party members who campaign week in, week out and it is therefore essential they have full confidence in their prospective Member of Parliament. I have no doubt that this would lead to the deselection of some MPs who have brought the Labour Party into disrepute, but I also believe a reselection process could serve as a positive affirmation for many other Labour MPs.

The full text of the letter and list of signatories can be found here on LabourList.