News from Labour North

Ian Mearns selected as Prospective Parliamentary Candidate for Gateshead

The Labour Party last night announced that Ian Mearns has been selected as the party’s Prospective Parliamentary Candidate for Gateshead.

Mr Mearns was chosen after a postal ballot of Labour Party members from across Gateshead constituency.

Mr Mearns, aged 52, will succeed Tyne Bridge MP David Clelland as the party’s candidate at the next General Election. Mr Mearns is currently Deputy Leader of Gateshead Council and a Councillor for Saltwell ward.

After his selection, Ian Mearns said: “I really felt it was important that the Constituency Labour Party had the chance to select a local person who cared passionately about the place and had fundamental understanding of the needs and aspirations of local people. I give a promise and a commitment of tireless work for Gateshead and for everyone that lives here.

“The people of Gateshead remember very well the consequences of a Tory government and we really must work hard to avoid that eventuality.”

David Clelland, Labour MP for Tyne Bridge added: “I am delighted at the decision. There is no-one more knowledgeable about Gateshead than Ian. He will make an excellent Member of Parliament for the town.”

Other news from Labour North

• Former miner Ian Lavery to fight Wansbeck for Labour - 27 February 2010
• Labour select Mary Glindon for North Tyneside - 26 February 2010
• Labour choose Pat Glass for North West Durham - 25 January 2010