John O’Farrell selected as Labour’s candidate

Labour have just chosen John O’Farrell, writer and broadcaster, as their candidate to stand in the forthcoming Eastleigh by-election.

The broadcaster, who unsuccessfully stood as Labour's candidate in Maidenhead 2001 and appeared on shows such as Have I Got News For You, was chosen by local members this evening.

He will be up against Maria Hutchings the Conservative candidate for Eastleigh, Diane James UKIP’s candidate, and Mike Thornton Lib-Dem candidate.

Labour came second in the 1994 by-election, but has since struggled to come close. 

Southampton MP John Denham has joined in on the campaigning by handing out leaflets and talking to people in the constituency.

Following selection as the Labour candidate in the Eastleigh by-election, John O'Farrell said in a statement : “In the last election the Lib Dems claimed it was a choice between them and the Conservatives in Eastleigh – people voted tactically to keep the Tories out and got a Conservative led-coalition.  Now the only tactical vote is for One Nation Labour; for an end to slashing the number of nurses and police officers, tax cuts for millionaires, and the tuition fees betrayal."

"I am offering Eastleigh a special trial offer. Elect a Labour MP at this by-election; if you don't like him you can send him back in two years time!"

On Twitter, O’Farrell said: “Proud to have been selected as the Labour candidate for #Eastleigh. Thank you so much for all your messages of support.” 

The by-election, caused by the resignation of Chris Huhne, will be held on February 28.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4i4qNNuCuDU