Emma has been re-elected as the Member of Parliament for South Shields, receiving over 50% of the vote in Thursday’s General Election and increasing her majority in the constituency.
She received 18,589 votes, more than twice the number of the second placed candidate. She defeated challengers from the Conservative party, UKIP, the Liberal Democrats and the Green party, as well as an Independent candidate.
Speaking at the count, Emma thanked voters in South Shields for their support, and said it was clear that people in Shields wanted an MP that would put the many before the few.
Emma said:
“I owe a huge debt of thanks to every voter in South Shields who gave me their support. You have trusted me to be your voice in Parliament, and it is an incredible honour that you have trusted me with that responsibility. I do not underestimate the importance of that trust, and I will not let you down…
“As your MP, my message from South Shields to Parliament and to the people of Britain will be that we must be a country of opportunity for all, we all share responsibility for building a better community and where we all share in the rewards. That is the country I will fight for as your Member of Parliament.”
Although nationally the Conservative party won a majority, Emma said she would fight hard for people in Shields and oppose Tory attacks on the worst off.
Speaking after the election, Emma said:
“Obviously I am disappointed that Labour didn’t get the votes we needed to form a government. But as opposition MPs we can still make a huge difference, and I will be working hard in Parliament to defend vulnerable people from Tory cuts, protect our NHS, and improve pay and conditions for working people.”
Parliament will return on 18 May.