[B]arrow Borough Councillor Gordon Murray, who represents Dalton South ward, has switched his allegiance to the Conservatives and Simon Fell due to the disastrous policies of Jeremy Corbyn’s Labour Party.
Gordon Murray said: “Every councillor should back the area they represent to the hilt and fight for it to succeed. But Jeremy Corbyn’s Labour Party only seem to want to shut Barrow down.
“Only the Conservative Party backs Trident and the investment coming into our area, meaning more local jobs and a strong local economy. I want to fight for Dalton residents in the most effective way possible – by joining the only party that backs our area.
“I can’t wait to get on the campaign trail with Simon Fell, campaigning for him to get to Westminster to sell the positive things that Barrow does to the Government.”
Simon Fell said: “I’m very glad to receive Gordon’s endorsement and welcome him into our Conservative local team.
“Now more than ever it’s important that we have a strong voice to fight for Barrow both locally and nationally. Gordon will continue to be a great champion for Dalton in Barrow Council for the prosperity that Jeremy Corbyn’s Labour party seems to determined to put at risk.”
Barrow and Furness Labour and Co-operative candidate for the general election John Woodcock commented on Mr Murray’s defection to the Conservatives.
He said: “I hadn’t realised Gordon Murray still considered himself and active councillor, but I wish him all the best for the future.
“Barrow and Furness needs strong, independent Labour voices who will stand up for our community as the Conservative government attempts to impose cuts to our NHS and classrooms.”
Barrow and Furness Constituency Labour party said: “We are not in the least bit surprised that Gordon Murray has re-joined the Conservatives.
“During his time in the Labour ranks he mainly talked about how much things cost, or executive housing and no-one here has any memory of him talking about how to help people.
“He carried out only the absolute bare minimum of campaigning work and the Conservatives are welcome to have him back.”