Controversy Over Richard Holden's Selection for Safe Tory Seat

Conservative Party Chairman Richard Holden has been chosen as the candidate for Basildon and Billericay, causing discontent among local party members. Local Tories were upset as Holden was the sole candidate offered by the national party. Holden has not commented, but a Conservative spokesperson said he was 'unanimously selected.'

Conservative Party Chairman, Richard Holden, has been selected as the Tory candidate for the Basildon and Billericay constituency, causing outrage among local party members.

Two local Tory officials claimed Holden was the only candidate presented by the national party, a move they described as a 'slap in the face' for the local Tories.

Despite the criticism, a Conservative Party spokesperson stated he was 'unanimously selected.' Holden, who has represented North West Durham since 2019, needed a new seat as his current one is being abolished in a scheduled boundary review.

Local party members are frustrated with the central party's handling, as they were expecting a choice of three candidates.

With the nominations deadline looming, the Conservative Party is under pressure to finalize their candidate roster.

The Labour candidate for the same seat is Alex Harrison, Stephen Conlay stands for Reform UK, and Stewart Goshawk for the Greens.