Mainstream makes the endorsement after having surveyed its members in Scotland on the candidate they most want to see lead Scottish Labour.
Members were also asked which qualities and skills they most want to see in Scottish Labour’s next leader, and the issues they most wish to see discussed and debated during the contest.
Support for Monica Lennon was almost unanimous amongst Scottish members of Mainstream who responded to the survey. Members also expressed a strong desire for Scottish Labour to have a meaningfully fresh start after years of electoral disappointment.
Concerns were voiced about the prospect of a coronation and a contest without all potential candidates on the ballot, and Scottish Labour not properly debating its future as a result.
Kerry Postlewhite, Chair of Mainstream’s Interim Council, said:
‘Scottish members of Mainstream are clear that this leadership election must act as acircuit-breaker for Scottish Labour. They see Monica Lennon as the candidate that candeliver a real reset and carry Scottish Labour to victory.
‘We hope that Scottish Labour MPs and MSPs will heed the voices of members andaffiliates and allow a real debate about the future.’
Euan Stainbank, Scottish Labour MP and a member of the Mainstream PLP Group, said:
‘Monica is an excellent candidate, who will bring values-driven leadership to the ScottishLabour Party. I’m delighted, as a member of the Mainstream PLP Group, that she hasbeen endorsed, as I believe she is the candidate who best represents the values of bothLabour members and communities in Scotland.
‘It is imperative that those of us who have the distinct honour to serve in one of Scotland'stwo Parliaments make sure she is on the ballot.’
