He’d be priviliged to be selected, he says.  Place your bets now for the chances of this … … 

Rt Hon Sir Kevin Barron MP

 I, Kevin Barron, was born in Hazlewood Castle, Tadcaster, and moved with my family to Maltby when I was 8 years old. I was educated at Maltby Hall Secondary School and began my working life as an underground electrician at Maltby Colliery. After studying Social Sciences at Sheffield University on a day release course I was awarded a scholarship at Ruskin College Oxford, where I gained a diploma in Labour Studies. I have been a member of the Labour Party since 1974, serving on the Regional Executive Committee for many years and also President of Rotherham Trades Council. In 1983 I was elected as the Member of Parliament for the Rother Valley, winning six subsequent elections. I am a member of Unite.

 I have represented the Rother Valley for nearly 31 years and have remained committed to the constituency and its people. As promised then, I have maintained an office in the constituency, where I hold regular surgeries and meetings. Sheena and Matthew work in the office on a full time basis and I also have a part-time assistant, Natalie. Sheena has worked for me now for over 28 years and has established a friendly and approachable presence. I keep in close contact with the Rother Valley Labour Party, both at General Management Committee and Ward level. Weekends are reserved for constituency work and I keep a busy diary, making myself available to individuals and organisations; also for home visits if constituents are unable to get to my surgeries. I like to think that I have established a good rapport with local organisations such as the Rotherham NHS both primary and secondary; RMBC; Rotherham & Barnsley Chamber of Commerce; South Yorkshire Police, local businesses, schools, colleges and Trade Unions, meeting regularly to discuss both specific and general issues. In Westminster I have chaired the Standards Committee and the Privileges’ Committee since the last election. I was appointed to the Privy Council in 2001 and was awarded a knighthood in this year’s New Years Honours List. I have always been accountable, approachable and accessible. I would be privileged to be selected as your candidate to fight the next General Election.