Tory MP defects: Who Christian Wakeford is and his political background?

Earlier today, the MP for Bury South, Christian Wakeford, dramatically resigned from the Conservative Party in opposition to Prime Minister Boris Johnson.

Additionally, Wakeford has applied to join the Labour party, saying in his resignation letter that the "best interests" of his constituents would be better served by Keir Starmer.

Wakeford had also sent a letter of no confidence to the Conservatives' 1922 Committee prior to his announcement.

But who is Christian Wakeford and what is the full context behind his decision?

Christian Wakeford is the MP for Bury South, who was elected in 2019 with a majority of 402.

Prior to becoming an MP, Wakeford concurrently held multiple public office roles, such as a Local Education Authority governor for Colne Park High School from 2009 to 2017.

He became a Conservative county councillor for the Pendle Hill division on Lancashire County Council from May 2013.

Why did Christian Wakeford defect to Labour?





Wakeford defected to the Labour party in opposition to Boris Johnson's handling of the Government.

In his resignation letter he said: "Sadly both the Prime Minister and the Conservative Party as a whole have shown themselves incapable of offering the leadership and government this country deserves.

"Being elected as MP for Bury South was the proudest day of my life. I care passionately about the area and will always be grateful to those who have supported me.

"Today, however, I am in no doubt that they will be better served by my joining a party that genuinely has their interests at heart," he added.

Wakeford had already expressd opposition to some of the stricter Covid restrictions that the Government had put in place, such as the vaccine passports and Plan B.

Back in December 2021 he tweeted: "I have long been a critic of vaccine passports having previously raised the matter in the chamber, so will vote against their introduction next week.

"The new restrictions are conflicting and damaging where you are to work from home but go to parties. I cannot support Plan B."

Last Tuesday, January 12 Wakeford expressed disappointment in the Government as details about more alleged parties broke.

He wrote: "How do you defend the indefensible? You can’t! It’s embarrassing and what’s worse is it further erodes trust in politics when it’s already low.

"We need openness, trust and honesty in our politics now more than ever and that starts from the top!"