A SKIPTON-based man who represents workers in the finance sector has been chosen as Labour’s candidate to try and oust sitting Skipton and Ripon Conservative MP Julian Smith in next month’s general election.

Brian McDaid, a father of two who lives in Gargrave, is assistant general secretary of the finance union Aegis. He represents workers from both Skipton Building Society and Computershare and other finance institutions across the UK.

Mr McDaid has lived in the area for the past 15 years. He is a school governor and campaigns on health and education issues.

He said: “The Conservatives’ austerity policies have had a devastating effect on local services over the past nine years. My wife works in the health service and our family have benefited from the tremendous and invaluable care that it provides, but I fear for the future.

“The country is crying out for change. Labour is committed to building both a fair society and a strong economy. The two go together. We need urgent action to tackle the climate emergency. The local commitment to make Craven carbon neutral by 2030 matches Labour’s national pledge. We owe it to future generations to build a sustainable economy, affordable housing that is energy efficient and jobs for the future.

“Labour will end the Brexit nightmare by giving people the choice between the best possible Brexit deal and sticking with things the way they are. It is important we recognise the outcome of the 2016 Referendum, but what matters is what people want now and try to resolve the detrimental divisions this situation has created within our communities. Brexit might have prompted the election but it must not just be about Brexit.”