Labour cancels leadership hustings after accident leaves Keir Starmer's mother-in-law critically ill
2 min read
Labour has cancelled its next Labour leadership hustings after Keir Starmer's mother-in-law was left critically ill following an accident.
The four remaining contenders had been due to be grilled by party members in Leeds on Saturday.
But Jennie Formby, Labour's general secretary, confirmed that the event would not go ahead, while Sir Keir has also cancelled all campaigning planned for this weekend.
It was announced on Thursday that the mother of Sir Keir's wife, Victoria, was being treated by doctors in intensive care.
The Shadow Brexit Secretary initially cancelled his campaign events on Thursday and Friday, but had been expected to take part in Saturday's hustings event.
On Friday, a spokesperson for Sir Keir said: "Further to yesterday’s statement, Keir will be cancelling all campaign events this weekend. We ask that his family’s privacy is respected at this time."
In an email to Labour staff, Ms Formby said: "You will all be aware that Keir’s mother-in-law is critically ill in hospital following a serious accident. Keir and his family are at her side and he will not be able to make the leadership hustings in Leeds tomorrow morning.
"The Procedures Committee unanimously agreed last night that in the circumstances and to ensure fairness to all candidates, the hustings will be cancelled, although the deputy leadership hustings will continue as planned.
"I am sure you will understand and support this decision and we look forward to seeing you all at the remaining 11 hustings.
"We have sent our very best wishes and solidarity to Keir and his family, and our hope that his mother-in-law recovers very soon."
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