TWO allies of Jeremy Corbyn have been shortlisted for Labour’s candidacy in the Oldham West and Royton by-election.

Seven hopefuls were cut down to four yesterday after they were interviewed by a panel of three members of Labour’s national executive.

Former left MP Chris Williamson and ex-Oldham councillor activist Mohammed Azam are among the candidates still in the running.

The left-wing pair face competition from Oldham council leader Jim McMahon, widely viewed as the favourite to win the selection.

Christian Aid charity worker Jane East, who stood in Colne Valley at the general election, is the outsider.

The shortlist was revealed as Labour announced December 3 as the date for the by-election, forced by the death of veteran left MP Michael Meacher.

There are just three days for each of the candidates to convince local Labour members of their merits before a selection meeting on Thursday.

Mr Williamson actively campaigned for Mr Corbyn during the Labour leadership contest.

After losing his Derby North seat at the general election, he signed an open letter arguing he would have held his seat had Mr Corbyn been party leader.

He was also one of 14 MPs who urged Ed Miliband to offer a clearer alternative to Tory cuts before the election.

Mr Azam is a Campaign for Labour Party Democracy activist and former national executive member.

His chances may be boosted by the high number of Asian members in the local Labour party and a belief that British Asians are underrepresented in Parliament.

Oldham councillor and Unison staff member Abdul Jabbar, Trafford councillor Sophie Taylor and Brent councillor Sabina Khan were not shortlisted.
lukejames@peoples-press.com