Darren Rodwell withdraws as Labour candidate in general election

Darren Rodwell has come under fire for a number of comments he has made – and is being investigated over allegations of sexual harassment. Photograph: Linda Nylind/The Guardian

Darren Rodwell, the controversial leader of Barking and Dagenham council, has withdrawn as a Labour candidate, saying he did not want allegations about his behaviour to be a “distraction”.

Rodwell’s candidacy was in doubt after it was not confirmed by Labour on Tuesday along with other names of people running to be MPs.