MP Jim Cousins quits and sparks battle for key seat

Jun 10 2009 by William Green, The Journal

THE battle for a crunch Parliamentary seat in Newcastle is set to intensify after Labour MP Jim Cousins announced he is quitting.

Mr Cousins has decided not to stand for Newcastle Central in the next General Election to spend more time with his wife, who has been unwell, and his family.

The Labour MP has held the seat since 1987, but the political fight for the constituency will heat up with the General Election having to be held within 12 months.

Mr Cousin’s local party will now choose a new candidate and there is speculation that Labour could go for an all-women shortlist.

The battle could also complicated by the redrawing of the constituency’s boundaries, which should potentially tip in Labour’s favour – although Liberal Democrats will mount a strong challenge.

Lib Dem candidate Gareth Kane said: “I am not sure it will make that much of a difference.

“Mr Cousins has as many enemies as friends on his own side, let alone anyone else. It all depends on who would replace him as a candidate.”

The developments came as other MPs paid tribute to Mr Cousins.