Shock over city Labour veterans axed by party

THE Labour Party has deselected around a dozen councillors in Birmingham ahead of elections next year, causing an outcry and confusion.

- JANE HAYNES Politics & People Editor

The group of sitting councillors have been told their applications to fight for their seat for Labour in May 2026 have been rejected by the party in favour of alternative new candidates who the party believes better align with their vision for the city’s future, and have a better chance of winning.

No local members were allowed to take part in the selection process via local selection meetings - instead it was overseen by the national party leadership via an independent panel that reviewed applications and conducted interviews.

Among the affected councillors, according to multiple inside sources, are recent Lord Mayor Chaman Lal, who represents Soho and Jewellery Quarter, and joined the council in 1994, enjoying 31 years of unbroken service since.

A lifelong equality activist, he was said to be devastated by the decision.

Former audit committee chairman Fred Grindrod (Bournville and Cotteridge) has also been ousted.

His friend and colleague Liz Clements - who is standing down by choice from the council - said it was a confusing decision given Grindrod’s efforts on behalf of his ward and his commitment to the Labour Party over many years.