Brexit Party Chairman Richard Tice to stand in Hartlepool

Brexit Party chairman Richard Tice has announced he will stand in Hartlepool in the upcoming General Election.

Hartlepool has been considered one of the Brexit Party’s most winnable seats in next month’s General Election, after the party took joint control of the local council in September, forming a coalition with three local Conservatives.

Speaking of his hopes for the Brexit Party in Hartlepool, Mr Tice said his party “plan to win, and win big”.

Announcing his candidacy on social media, Mr Tice said that he will “battle for a proper Brexit, more money into Hartlepool and more jobs for the people here”.

The town voted 69.3% to leave the EU three years ago in the referendum, however since the constituency’s creation in 1974, it has always been a Labour seat.

Making a speech in Hartlepool alongside the Brexit Party’s leader of the town’s council, Councillor Shane Moore, Mr Tice said he is “delighted” to be standing as the Brexit Party’s candidate.

Mr Tice said: “I am delighted to be standing here in Hartlepool and can’t wait to use my knowledge and experience, gained over years running successful businesses and this party, to fight for the interests of this city.

“I have worked outside the Westminster bubble and know how to get things done and solve problems. My party and I believe in common sense politics that will bring money and jobs into Hartlepool.

“Critically, I will ensure the proper Brexit that seven out of 10 people in this city voted for, is delivered. The former MP is out of touch, voting for more EU integration and consistently voting to keep the UK in the EU.

“I’m really looking forward to the campaign, meeting as many people as possible, and showing I am fully committed to this town and its future.”

Mr Tice, who was elected as an MEP for the party in May, founded the Leave Means Leave and Leave.EU campaigns.

Labour candidate for Hartlepool Mike Hill was elected in 2017.

Mr Hill was suspended from the party in September 2019 over allegations of sexual harassment, but had the Labour whip restored in October.

Councillor Shane Moore, the leader of Hartlepool Borough Council, added: “It’s great to have such a high-profile figure from the world of business and politics here in Hartlepool.

“Getting to know Richard, I believe he has the best interests of the town at heart and will be a strong champion for Hartlepool and its people here and in Westminster.”