New Interim Chairman For Guildford Labour Party

Published on: 25 Jan, 2020
Updated on: 25 Jan, 2020

Guildford Labour Party has chosen a new interim chairman.

Previous chairman Richard Mithen has stepped down after holding the position for two years. The current vice-chairman, Brian Creese, will step into the role until the the group’s annual meeting in May.

Richard Mithen (left) and Brian Creese of the Guildford Labour Party.

Richard, a local GP who stood in the Onslow ward at the May 2019 Guildford borough Council elections, said: “I have had an amazing two years as chair, during which time we have developed our member and public engagement, grown our youth wing, and looked to show how Labour policies can make tangible improvements to people’s lives in Guildford and Cranleigh.

“I think this is the right time to stand aside, spend more time with my family and concentrate on my studies as a doctor. I am very proud to have been chair here and will continue to support the party in any way I can.”

Brian added: “Richard has been a tremendous chair and we are all really sad that he has decided to step down at this time.

“Despite the disappointing [general] election result in December, there is plenty to do. We have had almost 200 new members since the election. So many of our supporters have voted Lib Dem in recent elections hoping to stop Brexit. This has simply failed and we have to show them that Labour can deliver in Guildford.”

At a meeting for all members on Wednesday January 23, Guildford Labour Party voted to nominate shadow foreign secretary Emily Thornberry MP as leader of the party and Dawn Butler MPas deputy leader.

Guildford Labour Party report that more than 50 members attended the meeting and during a vigorous debate every candidate for both positions was supported from the floor.

A spokesman said: “When it came to voting, however, Emily Thornberry, who is well know to many local members, was the clear winner as the leadership candidate.

“The contest for deputy was much closer, with voting going to the final round before Dawn Butler won out over Roseana Allin-Khan.

“The final decision will be made by all members who will be voting over February and March with a final result expected on Saturday April 4.

Story based on two press releases from the Guildford Labour Party.