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CWU backs Jeremy Corbyn to oust Blairites | |
(35 minutes later) | |
The Communication Workers Union has backed left-wing MP Jeremy Corbyn in Labour's leadership contest, saying the "grip of the Blairites" on the party must be "loosened once and for all". | |
The union, which has just under 200,000 members, put Andy Burnham as its second choice. | |
Its endorsement for the Islington North MP follows that of the UK's two largest unions, Unite and Unison. | |
The MP has gone from being an outsider to a front runner in the contest. | |
"There is a virus within the Labour Party and Jeremy Corbyn is the antidote," said CWU general secretary Dave Ward. | |
"We reject the notion that Labour needs to move to the centre ground of British politics. | |
"The centre ground has moved significantly to the right in recent years." | "The centre ground has moved significantly to the right in recent years." |
The union is recommending Angela Eagle for deputy leader, with Caroline Flint as second preference. | The union is recommending Angela Eagle for deputy leader, with Caroline Flint as second preference. |
BBC assistant political editor Norman Smith said the backing of another big union for Mr Corbyn would "fuel fears of a major split in the party if he becomes leader". |