WOLVERHAMPTON, UNITED KINGDOM - 8:05am, Tuesday May 11th 2021

Being able to seek public office, at just 23 years of age last week, was a moment full of deep, deep pride. That sense of humbleness and opportunity, is a thing that will live, and I have no doubt strengthen me, knowing of the collective responsibility all within The Labour Party and social democratic politics have, following the shattering blows that we received.

Those defeats and the need, for younger folk in seeking to step forward has born my mind since Friday's results - along with a massive sense of encouragement by colleagues across the party, friends, family and even political opponents; who I again give my congratulations upon their success.

I feel that is incumbent on me, as one of the 22 people from within Labour - who sought to become part of my city's governance, that I act in the best interest of many.

And it on those reasons, that I today state; particularly following the number of chats I have had with folk since last week, that I today formally declare my intention, to seek re-selection to the City of Wolverhampton Panel of Candidates, with the view at this stage of aiming to be on the ballot paper on May 5th, 2022.

I feel that the circumstances have changed enough, as a result of the very clear and stark message that the Electorate gave us last week, for someone like myself to change my original plans (as outlined in October) and be at the heart of listening to our residents, hearing honestly of what can bring them back to supporting my party and therefore enabling stronger support in 12 months’ time.

I will continue dialogue with fellow members in the coming few months and I am happy to speak with anyone, in seeking feedback on my 2021 campaign and the advice I should take, as we approach what will be a city defining Election next year, with all 60 seats up for grabs under new boundaries.

Until it's appropriate, I shall comment no further on the impending processes and look forward immensely, to hopefully seeking to serve the place, that has since August 15th, 2009, given me so much.

END