Official set for Moffat's seat

A LABOUR party official today emerged as a frontrunner to succeed East Lothian MP Anne Moffat when the party chooses a new candidate.

Fiona O'Donnell, 50, who is Labour's campaigns manager in Edinburgh, was approached by members of the local party and agreed to put her name forward.

A party source said she was well-known and respected in the constituency.

Labour's national executive committee yesterday threw out Ms Moffat's appeal against Friday night's 130-59 vote by the local party to deselect her.

It is now expected to announce an all-women shortlist with the aim of having a candidate in place before Easter.