Lee Scott, the former Ilford North MP, has been confirmed as the Tories’ candidate for the seat in the June 8 election.

Mr Scott, who represented the constituency between 2005 and 2015, was adopted unanimously and unopposed at a meeting of the Ilford North Conservatives last night.

He told his supporters: “There is a clear choice facing the voters of Ilford North on June 8.

“Strong and stable leadership in the national interest under Theresa May, or a weak and unstable coalition government led by Jeremey Corbyn.”

Mr Scott had previously said he would not stand again, but chose to run after receiving “200 calls” from supporters urging him to do so.

The Tory lost Ilford North by just 589 votes in 2015 to Labour’s Wes Streeting, and this year’s race looks set to be just as close.

Mr Scott said his priorities are stopping houses being built on Oakfields Playing Fields in Barkingside, speaking to ministers to save King George Hospital’s A&E and securing more housing that’s affordable for families in Redbridge.

There will be a full interview in next week’s Recorder.