Labour have chosen Emma Daniel as their candidate in the Hanover and Elm Grove by-election in July. The ward originally Labour became a stronghold for the Greens during the last 12 years. The result will give an early indication as to the extent of damage caused by the failed coup by the Greens to dispose of their Convenor, Jason Kitcat last month.
Emma, 36, said:
“I am very pleased to be selected and I look forward to talking to local people about the positive policies and new ideas Labour has for Hanover and Elm Grove, as well as the city as a whole.”
Leader of the Labour and Co-operative Group Cllr Warren Morgan, said:
“I’m delighted local members have chosen Emma, she will be an outstanding candidate and a fantastic councillor for Hanover and Elm Grove. So many voters are telling us they voted Green last time but are disappointed and will be returning to Labour in this election.”
Emma has over fifteen years experience in the voluntary sector, working in housing and homelessness policy. As a senior member of the city’s Community and Voluntary Sector Forum (CVSA), Emma supported elected representatives in their work in partnership with the statutory sector.
Emma also served as a member on the Sussex Police Authority, and founded the Coats for Kids project which collected and distributed winter coats to families who could not afford them last winter. Emma currently works in the city’s digital sector.
Passionate about equalities, Emma combines her work and political activism with family life, often bringing her step son and little girl, who goes to school in Hanover and Elm Grove, out campaigning on the doorstep.
The by-election has been caused by the resignation of Cllr Matt Follett, one of the three Green councillors for the ward and comes at a time when the Greens are currently bitterly divided and openly criticising each other, while at the same time rubbish remains uncollected in city streets.
The result is expected to be close with some predicting defeat for the ruling Greens. It would be the first time Labour have ever regained a seat from the Greens in the city, and would mark a sea-change in Brighton and Hove community politics. A lively campaign is expected by all.
Polling takes place on July 11.
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