UKIP has decided not to field a candidate in the Wells constituency – which includes Burnham-On-Sea – at the General Election on 8th June.
Helen Hims, who stood for UKIP in the constituency in the 2015 General Election, pictured right, made the surprise announcement last night (Tuesday).
She told Burnham-On-Sea.com: “After much discussion and consideration, we have decided not to stand a candidate in Wells Constituency at the general election on 8th June.”
“This decision is primarily due to the fact that it is possible that by standing a candidate in Wells, we might tip the balance back towards a Liberal Democrat victory, which of course would be a retrograde step in UKIP’s campaign for a full, unequivocal Brexit.”
She added: “In addition we note that Mr Heappey has been placed on a disgraceful ‘attack list’ by Open Britain, as one of 20 MPs to be singled out for removal if at all possible.”
“Wells will therefore be a prime focus of attention for the Lib Dems and other Remain campaigners during this election period.”
“I would like to stress that this is a ‘one-off’ decision, as hopefully by the next General Election Brexit will be complete.”
The decision does not affect UKIP’s decision to run in the separate County Council elections locally on May 4th. Two candidates are running in Burnham-On-Sea and Highbridge, as we reported here.
Pictured: UKIP’s Helen Hims with UKIP MEP Dr Julia Read at the launch of their Burnham-On-Sea EU election campaign last year
