Patrick Hurley MP has welcomed former Meols councillor Gareth Lloyd-Johnson to the Labour Party, describing his decision as further evidence that Andy Burnham’s leadership is bringing together people from across the political spectrum who want to see a more ambitious future for Britain’s towns and regions.
Lloyd-Johnson previously served as a Liberal Democrat councillor for Meols Ward and as the party’s deputy leader on Sefton Council. He has had a long career in the voluntary and health sectors, and has now joined Labour following Andy Burnham’s election as Party Leader.
Patrick Hurley MP said: “I’m delighted to welcome Gareth to the Labour Party. Although we’ve sat on opposite sides politically in the past, I’ve always respected his commitment to public service, particularly his work to improve cancer care and support the voluntary sector.
“His decision reflects something much bigger than one individual changing political parties. People who care deeply about their communities can see that Andy Burnham is offering a different kind of politics – one that believes power should be exercised closer to the people it serves, and that towns like Southport should be at the heart of Britain’s future, not an afterthought.
“For too long, too many coastal communities have been overlooked. We have enormous strengths, but we also face shared challenges around high streets, transport, health inequalities, seasonal economies and attracting investment. Andy understands those challenges because he has spent his career championing places outside Westminster.
“His commitment to regional development, stronger local leadership and investment in every part of the country is exactly the approach communities like Southport have been crying out for.
“Gareth’s experience in health policy, community development and the voluntary sector will be a real asset to Labour. I look forward to working with him as we continue building a positive vision for Southport and for the wider North.”
Commenting on his decision to join Labour, Gareth Lloyd-Johnson said: “Andy Burnham’s leadership convinced me that Labour is once again becoming the natural home for people who believe in strong communities, effective public services and giving towns and regions the tools they need to succeed.
“I have always believed that politics should be about improving people’s lives rather than tribalism. I believe Andy’s vision for the country, and Patrick’s work on behalf of Southport, provide the opportunity to build a more ambitious future for our town, and I’m pleased to be joining the Labour Party.”
Hurley said Burnham’s programme of economic renewal, devolution and investment offered a significant opportunity for coastal towns that have too often been left behind by decades of over-centralisation.
He added: “Southport has enormous potential. Whether it’s restoring our pier, improving transport, strengthening our cultural economy, investing in health and supporting our voluntary sector, we need a government that believes places like ours deserve to thrive.
“That’s the future Andy Burnham is setting out, and I’m delighted that Gareth wants to help us deliver it.”
