Thread by @paulwaugh

Big news in Labour land.
Local source says @margarethodge has been triggered by her local CLP for reselection contest.

I'm told there was v low turnout in many wards with less than 10 people voting in some. And margin of just one vote in some.

Just got this statement from @margarethodge
I am obviously disappointed. Mr priority remains serving the people of Barking as I have done for the last 25 years...

"At a vital time for the country, with a general election looming, we should be focusing our efforts on holding Boris Johnson and the Tories to account.

I will work to secure the full backing of Barking Labour Party, so I can continue to play my part as their MP in doing that."

Hodge lost 4 of 7 wards. In Longbridge ward the figures were 30 against her and 7 for.

This is a live situation. Of
11 branches, 6 for Margaret Hodge, 4 against, 1 voting in next 20 mins but expected to lose it.

But key is under reformed Labour rules only a third of branches needed to trigger a selection challenge

.@mikekatz of @JewishLabour
"Margaret Hodge has bn a steadfast campaigner against racism, fascism and intolerance throughout her political life. She saw off the BNP in Barking, + has over the last few years bn determined in her opposition to antisemitism within the Labour Party

"This is a shameful moment for a Party which claims to embody the values of equality and diversity. She has been the target of vicious smears, derision and antisemitism, because she has been resolute in her opposition to anti-Jewish racism. "

Here was Chief Whip report to the local CLP and Margaret Hodge reply, both circulated at meetings.

Abbey ward has just voted for trigger too.

Full story now HERE: huffingtonpost.co.uk/entry/labour-a…