A MOTION to dismiss John Woodcock MP as the Labour candidate for the Barrow and Furness constituency has been thrown out by the party’s National Executive Committee.

Mr Woodcock, who has been the constituency’s MP since the 2010 General Election, said he was pleased with the decision and was looking forward to seeking re-election for his seat.

The motion was brought about by members of the NEC who wanted him deselected as the candidate because of his vocal criticism of party leader Jeremy Corbyn.

He said: "I understand that my stance towards Jeremy Corbyn is controversial but I have always been determined to put our community first and be honest with the people I serve no matter how much flak I get.

“Thanks to sense prevailing, people in Barrow and Furness can vote on who they think will best stand up for them locally without worrying about national leadership.

"The choice on 8 June is me as the strong, independent Labour voice demanding the best deal for our area against Conservative government cuts to our hospital and schools, or a Tory nodding dog who won't fight our corner."