A NEWPORT councillor has been selected as a candidate MP for the conservative party in the event of a general election or by-election.

Ally-yr-yn Tory councillor and leader of the city council’s conservative group Matthew Evans has been revealed as the party’s choice.  

Cllr Evans has also previously served as Mayor of Newport.

Speaking after his nomination, Cllr Evans said: “I am delighted to have been selected, and I would like to say straight away that if I am elected to parliament, my priority will be to represent all of the people of Newport West - regardless of their political persuasion.

“I was raised in Newport and my family have lived here for generations. I want the best for this area and will work tirelessly to make sure we get it.”

He added that more jobs, support for local businesses and increased opportunities for young people are high on his agenda.

The news comes months after veteran Newport West Labour MP Paul Flynn announced he would stand down after 31 years in the house of commons due to health reasons.

Mr Flynn, 83, previously said in October last year he would leave his post at “an appropriate time”, though he remains in parliament at the time of writing.

Plaid Cymru, the Liberal Democrats and UKIP have not selected a party candidate yet.

Ruth Jones has been selected as the Labour candidate.

Amelia Womack has been selected as the Green Party candidate.