Stay up to date with notifications from The Independent

Notifications can be managed in browser preferences.

Two-vote winning margin for new Labour MP in committee contest

A recount was required for the Commons Scottish Affairs Committee contest.

Richard Wheeler
Thursday 12 September 2024 10:12
Select committees are reappointed in a new parliament after a general election (Nick Ansell/PA)
Select committees are reappointed in a new parliament after a general election (Nick Ansell/PA) (PA Archive)

Your support helps us to tell the story

As your White House correspondent, I ask the tough questions and seek the answers that matter.

Your support enables me to be in the room, pressing for transparency and accountability. Without your contributions, we wouldn't have the resources to challenge those in power.

Your donation makes it possible for us to keep doing this important work, keeping you informed every step of the way to the November election

Head shot of Andrew Feinberg

Andrew Feinberg

White House Correspondent

A Labour MP has won the election to chair the Commons Scottish Affairs Committee by just two votes following a recount.

Patricia Ferguson (Glasgow West) emerged victorious over her fellow member of the 2024 intake Gregor Poynton, the Labour MP for Livingston.

The results showed Ms Ferguson received 237 votes compared with Mr Poynton’s 235.

Commons Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle had announced the election results for the other committee posts on Wednesday evening, but noted a recount was required for the Scottish Affairs Committee contest.

Sir Lindsay confirmed the result on Thursday morning.

Select committees, which are reappointed in a new parliament after a general election, are tasked with examining and challenging the work of government.

They can also run inquiries on specific topics and undertake visits.

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in