Usually over the next few months Labour Party members would be meeting to select the candidates for their ward in the next local council election in 2026. In the past there have been allegations of candidates signing up friends and family as Labour Party members a few week before the selection meeting in order to get the maximum vote.
This year is different.
Selection will be made by external 'assessors' recruited by the London Region of the Labour Party. Each candidate will have a 30 minute virtual interview. Candidates will be able to express a preference for their top three wards but sitting councillors will be given first preferences in the allocation of wards.
So what role will rank and file Labour Party members have?
The control by the London Region does not end there. A 'Campaign Improvement Board' will operate in Brent due to the electoral challenge it faces. It will oversee the selection process and establish a relationship with all Brent candidates ahead of the election. Candidates wil be expected to sign a contract setting out campaigning expectations and any extra support needed. Training will also be provided.
The Brent Campaign Improvement Board will include
Abdi Duale (NEC), Bella Sankey (Leader of
Brighton & Hove Council), and Clyde Loakes (Deputy Leader of Waltham Forest
Council).
All are well known supporters of Labour leader Keir Starmer.
Cllr Shama Tatler is Vice Chair of the London Regional Executive Committee and a member o the Regional Board for Barnet, Camden, Brent and Harrow.
