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LABOUR MPs past and present from the Portsmouth region have given their allegiance to Sir Keir Starmer in the party leadership race.

Rebecca Long-Bailey, Lisa Nandy and Emily Thornberry stand as the other candidates for leadership of the Labour Party, with trade union Unite announcing that it will be backing Rebecca Long-Bailey in the leadership race.

But Portsmouth representatives from years gone by have now publicly stated their support for Sir Keir.

These include Syd Rapson, MP for Portsmouth North from 1997 to 2005; Lord Frank Judd, an MP from 1966 to 1979; and Sarah McCarthy-Fry, who held the seat from 2005 to 2010.

Labour leadership candidate, Sir Kier Starmer MP. Picture: Stefan Rousseau/PA Wire

Lord Judd said: ‘Of what is an interesting and impressive short list, I shall be backing Sir Keir – his record speaks for itself.

‘He will bring rational and calm statesmanship to the forefront and has respect across the political spectrum.’

Ms McCarthy-Fry added: ‘We need a leader who can win the trust of the voters and beat the Tories; I believe Sir Keir is best placed to make that happen.’

Current Portsmouth South MP Stephen Morgan added: ‘ Sir Kier Starmer is the candidate capable keeping the policy programme radical, bringing the party together and importantly, forging a path back to power.’

The leadership election result will be announced on April 4.

Portsmouth's Labour politicians pledge leadership backing to Sir Keir Starmer