MP Seeks Selection For 'Home' Seat

3.47.48pm GMT Mon 5th Feb 2007

Julia Goldsworthy MP has announced her intention to seek selection as the candidate for the new Camborne, Hayle and Redruth constituency at the next election. Ms Goldsworthy's announcement comes after the Inaugural Meeting of the Liberal Democrat constituency party in Hayle on Friday (26th January).

Changes to constituency boundaries mean that after the next General Election, Cornwall will have 6 MPs with Falmouth and Camborne being split to form the Falmouth and Truro seat and the new constituency of Camborne, Redruth and Hayle.

Speaking to an audience of party supporters, Julia Goldsworthy said:

"Since I was elected, I have done my best to get to know and fight for every inch of the constituency, from Penryn and Mylor to Redruth, and Falmouth to Camborne. It is a fantastic community to represent, as well as a real privilege to be elected in the constituency I was born and brought up in.

"Without the option of standing for the seat on its existing boundaries, I am left with a very difficult decision over which seat I will seek to represent at the next election.

"After thinking the matter over very carefully, I have come to the conclusion that I will be most effective for the constituency, and the Liberal Democrat cause, if I once again seek to stand for Parliament in the seat in which I was born and brought up. Although I have strong links to all parts of Falmouth and Camborne, my "home" will always be Camborne.

"If approved as the candidate for the new constituency of Camborne, Redruth and Hayle, I realise there is lots of work to do to get to know every inch of the parts that won't be as familiar to me. In the next few weeks I hope to be in contact with as many local people as possible to hear their views about the issues that they consider to be important.

"I won't be neglecting any part of the Falmouth and Camborne constituency before the next election - after all, I will remain the MP until then. And I intend, of course, to continue to work very closely with my neighbouring colleagues Matthew Taylor and Andrew George, as well as the new Liberal Democrat candidates who will be selected in due course.

"For almost 10 years as the local MP, Andrew George has made a huge impact in Hayle - and I know that he will continue to do so right up until the next election. If selected, I will match his commitment and dedication to the area and will relish the challenge of continuing Andrew's good work."