The Co-operative Party has backed Liverpool Wavertree MP Luciana Berger as its candidate for the newly created role of Mayor of the Liverpool City Region.

https://youtu.be/fCinTJl-pGE

In her statement for the nomination, Luciana Berger said:

I want to be the Labour & Co-operative candidate for Metro Mayor because I believe in this region and the potential of our people. I believe we need a fresh start and radical ambition to make our region successful, prosperous and more equal.

I have long been a champion for co-operative values and principles in British politics and public life. I am proud of my record in standing up for energy co-operatives and co-operative development internationally.

As a Labour & Co-operative Mayor I would be honoured to continue this work. I believe there is great scope for the new Mayor to build a more co-operative region. Co-operative solutions offer answers to some of the biggest policy challenges our region faces whether it be social and economic inclusion, housing or transport.

I will bring my expertise in local co-operative energy projects to ensure that – in spite of central Government’s lack of support – the region develops co-operative and community owned renewable energy. I believe that there needs to be a strong passenger voice and representation within our transport networks and I am keen to explore the extent the not-for-profit sector can add to our bus network.

As ever I will be keen to work with the wider co-operative family to bring the best of our movement to the fore, ensuring that everyone in the region benefits from the strength and sustainability of co-operation and mutualism. I believe together we can tackle inequality and make a happy, healthy and beautiful region for all.