Michael Marra clears Scottish Labour leadership hurdle thanks to union support

Michael Marra has become the first Scottish Labour leadership contender to secure a place on the ballot after winning union support.

The development comes ahead of a hustings event in Glasgow.

As well as the backing of three MSPs and three MPs, those seeking to succeed Anas Sarwar must win nominations from at least three affiliated organisations, including two trade unions.

Marra, who represents North East Scotland, has now fulfilled the list after the National Mineworkers’ Union and transport body Aslef gave him their official backing.

Joe Fagan and Monica Lennon have also declared their candidacies, but are yet to secure all the necessary support.

Marra said: “I’m honoured to be nominated by Aslef trade union and to have secured enough support to make the ballot for the leadership election.

“Scottish Labour needs to rediscover its moral purpose. That’s why I’m standing – to renew and unite our party.”

Marra, who was the party’s economy spokesperson under Sarwar, had already secured sufficient parliamentary support, as has new MSP Fagan, who must win over affiliated organisations. While Lennon has trade union backing, she needs more parliamentarians to get behind her to ensure her name is on the ballot.

Candidates will take questions from party members in Glasgow this evening.

The leadership contest was called after Sarwar stepped down from the Scottish Parliament to join the Lords and serve in Andy Burnham’s UK Government.

Nominations close on 17 August, with the result due on 19 September.