Raynsford to be Dobson's manager
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.FRANK DOBSON'S chances of becoming the mayor of London received a boost yesterday when Nick Raynsford, the Housing minister, pulled out of the race and instead became Mr Dobson's campaign manager.
FRANK DOBSON'S chances of becoming the mayor of London received a boost yesterday when Nick Raynsford, the Housing minister, pulled out of the race and instead became Mr Dobson's campaign manager.
Mr Raynsford's decision means the former secretary of state for health is the favourite to take on Ken Livingstone for the party's nomination. But Mr Dobson's candidacy will not lead to the withdrawal of Glenda Jackson, her office said.
Labour's ruling National Executive Committee will today finally announce its selection procedure for the party's mayoral candidate, with a fast-track system designed to get a name in place by the end of next month. A panel of 12 party figures, made up of NEC members, London Labour Party members and independents, will vet all applications before drawing up a shortlist of a maximum of four names.
Sources said last night that if Mr Livingstone failed a "loyalty test" to discover his views on a range of government policies, he would be barred. However, if he persuaded the panel of his commitment to the party line, he may be allowed to stand.
Mr Raynsford yesterday said: "Following Frank's decision to join the race I am ... withdrawing my candidacy and urging all my supporters to give Frank their wholehearted backing."
The bookmaker William Hill has Mr Dobson as 4/5 favourite to become mayor. Jeffrey Archer is 2/1, Ken Livingstone 3/1, Tony Banks 14/1, Glenda Jackson 25/1, and Trevor Phillips, 33/1.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments