Tower Hamlets’ Labour Group leader to stand down in April
Josh Peck - Credit: Archant
Leader of Tower Hamlets’ Labour group Cllr Joshua Peck has announced he will stand down in April, ruling himself out of the running to become the borough’s Mayor.
In a statement released on Sunday, Cllr Peck endorsed London Assembly Member John Biggs for Labour’s nomination for 2014’s Mayoral contest.
The decision follows the news that he and his partner have been approved to adopt a child, leaving him keen dedicate more time to his impending role as a parent.
“I am immensely proud of what we’ve achieved as a Labour Group in my two years as Leader” he said.
“I’d like to thank everyone who has supported me within and outside the Party for the last two years. The 26 councillors I have worked with are a talented, dedicated and determined group of people without whom our borough would be all the poorer.”
Cllr Peck will step aside in April, when the preferred candidate for 2014’s Mayoral election will be announced by the Party. He will continue to perform his duties as a back bench councillor.
His announcement includes a strong message of support for John Biggs, who is expected to formally announce his intention to run in the coming weeks.
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“I will be backing John Biggs, our GLA member, who I have known and worked alongside for over 15 years”, he said.
“He is by far the most experienced candidate, with a track record of delivering success for the party. He also has a strong record of serving the people of our borough with total integrity and commitment, in a way that has built respect for him across our community.”
The closing date for applications to be Labour’s nominee for the 2014 election is February 22. A shortlist will then be voted on by local party members on April 4.
