Gwent MPs vow to stick by parties after Labour and Tory politicians jump ship

Earlier this week eight Labour MPs left the party in protest against Jeremy Corbyn's handling of Brexit, and allegations of anti-Semitism.

And on Wednesday a trio of Conservative MPs joined them in the newly-formed Indepedent Group.

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But all five of Gwent's MPs - Labour's Jessica Morden, Nick Thomas-Symonds, Chris Evans and Nick Smith, as well as Conservative David Davies - have confirmed they will not be following suit.

Confirming he would remain within the party, Torfaen MP Mr Thomas-Symonds recalled advice he was given by former Labour leader and Blaenau Gwent MP Michael Foot.

Torfaen MP Nick Thomas-Symonds

“Over 20 years ago I went to visit Michael Foot in Pilgrim’s Lane, and he said: 'Whatever your differences with the party at any time, stay and make the case from inside'," he said.

"Michael’s words seem relevant this week.

"We need a Labour government for the millions of people who rely on us. Labour splits only help our opponents.”

And a spokesman from the office of Ms Morden - who represents Newport East - said: "It’s a definite ‘no’ to leaving."

Newport East MP Jessica Morden

Meanwhile, Monmouth MP Mr Davies said: "I suppose you have to ask if I would be interested in joining a group of MPs who want to stay in the EU but didn’t have the courage to campaign on that basis during the 2017 election, who say they want a 'people’s vote' but are not willing to let the people of their constituency have one in a by-election.

Monmouth MP David Davies

"The answer is no. Not in a million years."

Islwyn's Chris Evans said his commitment to the Labour was "total".

Islwyn MP Chris Evans

"It is the only party which can bring about positive change to the lives of those in my constituency," he said.

"I will continue to work hard to bring about a Labour Government, which this country needs."

And a spokesman from the office of Mr Smith, who represents Blaenau Gwent, said: "No, Nick will not be leaving the Labour Party."

Newport West is currently without an MP following the death of Paul Flynn on Sunday.

Ex-Newport West MP Paul Flynn