Labour branch backs Leonard

The Rutherglen branch of the Labour Party has endorsed Richard Leonard in the party’s Scottish leadership election.

Members are believed to have voted on Sunday night for the former trade unionist, who is seen as the favourite for the role.

Rutherglen was widely expected to nominate Anas Sarwar, who is seen as the moderate candidate.

The Rutherglen branch has a reputation for backing moderate candidates having previously supported the likes of Owen Smith and Andy Burnham against Jeremy Corbyn.

But last week the Reformer reported on apparent splits in the local branch, with many new members wanting to back Leonard, who is seen as being to the left of the party.

Rutherglen and Hamilton West MP Gerard Killen had already given his backing to Mr Leonard, who is a supporter of Jeremy Corbyn.

James Kelly MSP, who is a member of the Rutherglen branch, nominated Mr Sarwar for the role.