Hamilton MSP reselected by Labour Party

Feb 11 2010 by Alastair McNeill, Hamilton Advertiser

THE current Hamilton South MSP Tom McCabe has been unanimously reselected as a Scottish Parliament candidate by the Labour Party.

The vote by Labour Party branches and affiliated organisation such as trade unions took place at the end of last month.

Mr McCabe will likely contest a new Hamilton, Larkhall and Stonehouse constituency at the next Holyrood elections.

Labour colleagues Michael McMahon and Karen Gillon were also reselected for redrawn constituencies unanimously.

A Boundary Commission review of Scottish Parliament constituency boundaries is nearing completion, and is expected to be implemented for the May 2011 elections.

Mr McCabe said this week: “I am delighted to have been reselected, and particularly pleased the vote was unanimous.

“I’m looking forward to the challenges of the next election, and particularly getting the chance to represent Larkhall.

“I’ve always felt very close to the town given my 11 years there as a councillor.”

The Hamilton, Larkhall and Stonehouse constituency also includes High Blantyre. However, the rest of Blantyre will be part of a new Rutherglen seat.

The current Hamilton North and Bellshill MSP Michael McMahon was reselected at the beginning of December.

He is set to contest the new Uddingston and Bellshill constituency which includes Whitehill and Bothwell.

Mr McMahon said: “You do your best and work hard on behalf of your constituents first and foremost. It’s very gratifying.

“It’s also very satisfying to get the endorsement of the trade unions. After all they represent the working people you represent.”

Clydesdale MSP Karen Gillon was selected for the new Clydesdale constituency unanimously at the same meeting as Mr McCabe.

She will contest the new Clydesdale constituency which no longer includes Larkhall, but takes in Strathaven, Drumclog and Chapelton.

Ms Gillon said: “I’m delighted that Labour Party members in the constituency have put their trust in me again as their candidate.

“I’m also pleased members in the boundaries of the constituency have given me their support.

“It is important given that it’s a new area, and I’m looking forward to the challenge.”

TOM McCABE

KAREN GILLON

MICHAEL McMAHON