Tribute to Ealing Southall MP Virendra Sharma after retirement announcement – EALING.NEWS – The Voice of Ealing 7 towns

Ealing Council councilors and politicians have paid tribute to Ealing Southall MP Virendra Sharma who announced on Monday night (27 May 2024) that he will not be seeking re-election at the upcoming General Election on 4 July 2024.

Mr Sharma, a former Ealing councilor and Mayor of Ealing who has represented Ealing Southall since 2007 following a by-election triggered by the death of MP Piara Khabra, said: “For nearly 50 years I have served the party in one form or another. Now I think it’s time to start another chapter. I want to inform you that I will not run for the next election.”

In the last election in 2019, Mr Sharma had a majority of 16,084 over the Conservatives.

According to several sources, because of the delay in the dismissal, Labor will not have a long or short list of candidates for the Ealing Southall seat and will appoint someone directly. A number of names suggested as candidates include Ealing Council leader Councilor Peter Mason and veteran Southall councilor Jasbir Anand.

Posting on X, Councilor Mason said: “We are a better party and Ealing Southall is a better place because of Virendra Sharma’s public service. Over 50 years of dedication to the communities they represent. He will leave a lasting legacy, as will the things to which he directs his energies in the future. Thank you.”

Ealing Central and Acton MP Dr Rupa Huq said: “Yesterday’s last-minute retirement vote sees political giants leave, leaving Parliament poorer. Most notably my MP neighbor Virendra, who I first met in the 1990s and was such a unifying figure in Southall, with all her quirks. Huge shoes to fill.”

Councilor Monica Hamidi, who is set to become Wokingham MP, posted: “Over the last 15 years you have become like family to me, not just my boss. Your support and guidance gave me the confidence to shape my journey and career. I will miss our talks but I am sure Nirmala will be happy to have you home more now. Thanks for everything!”

Mayor of Ealing (2023/2024), Councilor Hitesh Tailor said: “Thank you Virendra for your years of service and advice and counsel. A wonderful beacon of support during my (just completed) year as Mayor.”

James Murray MP for Ealing North said: “Most people will know Virendra for his amazing record as a public servant who has given so much to the people he represents. I also know him as a parliamentary neighbor for whose kindness, generosity and guidance I have been extremely grateful. Thank you Virendra.”

London Assembly Member and Councilor Bassam Mahfouz said: “Someone I am truly honored to call a friend. Humble, generous and always full of positivity. He has been a beacon of positive change since arriving in the UK, championing the causes of underrepresented communities. Thank you for all your support over the years.”

Former London Assembly Member Dr Onkar Sahota posted: This is an important decision after long political service to Ealing Southall constituents by @VirendraSharma. I want to thank him for all his hard work, commitment and dedication. My best wishes to Virendra and family for the future.”

Sharma’s replacement is expected to be announced later this week.

Neil Reynolds, who represents the Green Party, posted on X: “Usually when an MP resigns this late, it’s because they agreed to deny local members a say in their replacement. Often they get a seat in the house of lords soon after. Ealing Southall deserves better.”

As candidates from all parties and independents are announced, EALING.NEWS will provide comprehensive coverage and updates on who is standing in each of Ealing’s three constituencies.

Previously announced candidates standing in the 4th July 2024 general election for Ealing Southall are:

Steve Chilcott (Reform UK)
Tariq Mahmood (Liberal Democrats)
Neil Reynolds (Green Party)