The Lifeboat News: Labour blocks sitting left-wing mayor Jamie Driscoll from standing for new North East role

Sky News understands Mr Driscoll's candidacy was refused because he recently appeared at an event with the film director Ken Loach, who was expelled from the party in 2021 for claiming there had been a "purge" and "witch hunt" of Jeremy Corbyn supporters under Sir Keir Starmer's leadership.

At the time of the event in March, Mr Driscoll said: "I spoke with Ken Loach as part of the Live Theatre's 50th anniversary celebrations. Mr Loach has chosen the North East as a location for his most recent film 'The Old Oak' as well as his previous films, Sorry We Missed You and I, Daniel Blake. During the event, we participated in a lively and engaging discussion about his critically acclaimed films, work and illustrious career."

Mr Driscoll also said he shared a platform with Mr Loach because he had just finished filming in the North East and both were invited to an event, which the audience "loved".

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https://news.sky.com/story/amp/labour-blocks-sitting-left-wing-mayor-jamie-driscoll-from-standing-for-new-north-east-role-12895244