Sargeant’s son on Labour’s shortlist for by-election

CARL Sargeant’s son Jack Sargeant has been confirmed as one of three potential candidates shortlisted by Labour to stand in the Alyn and Deeside by-election caused by the former minister’s death.

On January 3 he will be up against Flintshire councillor Carolyn Thomas and Hannah Jones, who chairs Saltney Labour Party branch, for the party nomination.

The by-election will take place on Tuesday February 6.

Mr Sargeant, 23, who studied engineering, said: “I’m very pleased to have crossed this first hurdle in the process.

“I now look forward to the final selection meeting early in the New Year, when I will have the opportunity to set out my vision directly to local party members.

“Labour values run deep in this part of north-east Wales – they define our community.

“The by-election will be important in ensuring we can continue to put those values into action for everyone in Alyn and Deeside.

“That’s why I’ve put my name forward to be the Labour candidate.”

Carl Sargeant is believed to have taken his own life on November 7, four days after losing his post as Cabinet Secretary for Communities and Children because of allegations of sexual harassment against him, which he denied.

Mr Sargeant represented the constituency from 2003 until his death and spent 10 years in government.

In May last year he had a majority of 5,364 votes over the second-placed Conservative candidate.

Three separate inquiries into matters arising from his death are taking place, as well as a coroner’s inquest.