The ex-MP talking on Twitter about the Call out for Emma Dent Coad GoFundMe appeal [@emmadentcoad]

A FORMER Labour MP says it looks more likely every day that she will stand as an independent at the next general election after thousands of pounds poured in to a campaign fundraiser.

Emma Dent Coad, who was elected to represent Kensington in 2017 but lost her seat in the Boris Johnson landslide of 2019, was blocked from standing again under Sir Keir Starmer’s Labour.

Those on the political left are calling for her to stand, saying the Labour Party now aspires to Conservative values in its quest for power.

She said it was important “for good people with progressive politics” to stand in elections and for independent candidates that were “not backed by corporate funders”.

Ms Dent Coad said: “I’ve been surprised, delighted and humbled by the incredible response to the call-out my friends set up to persuade me to stand as a Kensington independent in the upcoming general election.
“It seems more likely every day that I’ll stand.”

The fundraiser has raised more than £20,000 that Ms Dent Coad said was two-thirds of the target.

On a fundraising page she said she wanted to do “mass mail-outs” but added: “We’ve never been able to send mailings to everyone before, and I know the opposition will be doing it, with huge corporate funders behind them.”

In a plea to her supporters, she said: “Please help us to get to our target. If you know anyone who is likely to support this campaign and has not yet donated, please explain how important it is for an independent candidate, without party or corporations behind them, to run a decent campaign.

“Every penny will be spent on the campaign – literature, mailings, social media, and maybe part-time staff nearer the time – to offer those who feel politically homeless an independent voice for Kensington.”

Last year Labour selected Joe Powell as its candidate for Kensington and the incumbent MP is Conservative Felicity Buchan.

Prime minister Rishi Sunak has until January 2025 to call a fresh vote under the law although he is expected to announce the poll at some point in 2024.

Walter Menteth, a friend of Ms Dent Coad’s who has organised the independent campaign fundraiser, said: “Her victory in Kensington in 2017 was a stunning achievement although quickly overtaken by the tragedy of the Grenfell disaster which she continues working forward on, on behalf of the community, locally and nationally.

“We need people like Emma in Westminster, her understanding of the built environment is more important than ever at a time of climate change, housing crises and high air pollution. She is well known and trusted in Kensington, has pledged to work beyond party politics, with all communities, and has proven experience, commitment, and diligence in the service of the people of the borough.

“We need leadership from representatives of Emma’s calibre who have her integrity, courage and skills.”