THREAD:

1. After much consideration, I have decided to fight this election in the place I call home-Hull West & Hessle

Given the toxic political climate, this was not an easy decision to make, especially given the abuse I received from @UKLabour supporters when standing 2017

2. I feel strongly that Brexiteers have been let down. Especially in so-called safe Labour seats which voted for Brexit.

Your votes have been taken for granted and your wishes dismissed.

Do not be fooled - @UKLabour is determined to ignore the wishes of Brexiteers.

3. Equally, do not be fooled re @Conservatives they have not truly cared about the working classes for decades....

4. I have been repeatedly told to stand down, to avoid splitting the leave vote.

I will not stand down - I will stand up. Stand up for Brexiteers, stand up for the North and stand up against the arrogance of the main parties.

5. The North has been ignored for too long. Used too often as a political pawn- a sound bite to try & win elections, with no real regard or intent behind it. I am tired of it.

Brexit gives an opportunity for further devolution. To put the North front & centre-not an afterthought

6. I will do everything possible to fight a fair and respectful campaign.

I ask all my supporters & campaigners to operate on the same level. Abuse is rife & we must rise above it. When they go low, we must go high. I do not condone any abuse of my opponents.

#GeneralElection