Ben Bradshaw MP

M: 07XXX XXXXXX
E: XXXXXXXXX
 
 

16th September 2010

 

I am writing to let you know that I intend to stand in the shadow cabinet elections. I hope you
will consider voting for me for the following reasons:
 
With my team of activists, I have turned a traditionally safe Tory seat in the south of England into
a Labour one, through hard work, organisation, and winning and retaining the support of people
who would not normally vote Labour. Just last week in Exeter, Labour won 3 Tory seats in local
by-elections and we took control of the council – now the only Labour-run local authority in the
South West. I am one of only 10 remaining Labour MPs from southern England outside London
(down from 45 before the election) and believe it’s vital that this voice is heard around the
shadow cabinet table, so we can win back the votes and seats we need to return to government.
 
As Culture Secretary, at Health and in my other jobs in government I developed and implemented
successful and popular Labour policies. I presented and defended them effectively in the chamber
and outside. My door has always been open to colleagues.
Supporting and visiting CLPs and helping with fundraising is central to a shadow cabinet role and
something I prioritised while a Minister. Competence, inclusiveness and good communications
and campaigning skills will be vital in taking the fight to this government and building a credible
alternative Labour programme in opposition.
 
I have always been loyal to the Party and the leadership, but have been frank privately when I
have felt they have been wrong. I have also always been prepared to go out to bat for the Party in
the media at the toughest times.
 
I have kept this brief, as you'll be receiving lots of these. But if you'd like to have a chat in more
detail, I would be very pleased to hear from you. Please don't hesitate to call on
XXXXXXXXXXX, email at XXXXXXX or catch me at conference.

Ben Bradshaw MP