Hazel Blears to step down in 2015

Former Cabinet Minister and Party Chair Hazel Blears has announced that she will be stepping down from her Salford seat in 2015. Blears has represented the Greater Manchester seat since 1997, and was a staunch supporter of Tony Blair. She served in his cabinet, stood unsuccessfully for Deputy Leader, and also served in the Cabinet of Gordon Brown – before her “rock the boat” resignation from Brown’s cabinet on the eve of the 2009 European elections.

In the most recent Parliament, Blears has campaigned on opening up parliament through reforming internships, and security issues. Ed Miliband praised Blears last night as “a brilliant MP. Always fighting for those in most need. Parliament will miss her”, and Blears herself released the following statement last night:

“I have been driven throughout my time as MP by a desire to improve people’s lives and ensure that Salford gets its fair share of resources and investment.

“No one person has a magic wand with which to do this, but I have worked hard alongside some fantastic leaders, organisations and residents and I feel that together we have really made a difference.

“When I look around me now and think back to 1997 I can honestly say I am proud that our city is in a much better place now than it was back then.

“Of course, we still face significant challenges, and the government’s cuts are really hurting some people.

“But I am confident that whoever takes on the fight can keep this seat for Labour next year and help to continue to steer us through these difficult times to a bright future.”

Salford and Eccles currently has a majority of 5,725 – not a large majority – but the seat is generally considered a safe one for Labour.