Don't rig Lewisham West
A party that sets out its stall as a champion of social mobility and scourge of rigged, elitist systems should probably avoid cosy, nepotistic stitch-ups. As local Labour MP Jim Dowd stands down, the Evening Standard writes:
"It’s a family affair for Labour. Lewisham West and Penge MP Jim Dowd has decided to take his pension after 25 years, and the race to replace him as Labour candidate looks set to feature two modern party dynasties.
"In one red corner is Ellie Reeves, vice-chair of the London Labour Party — and sister of chess champ and Labour MP Rachel. Ellie’s husband John Cryer is an east London MP and chair of the Parliamentary Labour Party. Both of John’s parents were Labour MPs too.
"But Reeves won’t be in for an easy ride. Whisperings are that Joe Dromey, who has wowed locals as an independent-minded Lewisham councillor, would also like to run. Dromey may struggle to escape the shadow of his own parents, though — dad Jack is MP for Birmingham Erdington while his mother is Labour heavyweight Harriet Harman.
"With rumours that Jeremy Corbyn’s son Seb might throw his hat in the ring, are these the new red princes and princesses?"
However, Dromey has denied he will be standing:
Wasn't asked if I was standing for Lewisham West and Penge. I'm not. Ellie would be an outstanding MP. Hope she goes for it pic.twitter.com/JupN9br8Vi— Joe Dromey (@Joe_Dromey) April 21, 2017
