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The Guardian - UK
The Guardian - UK
Politics
Rajeev Syal Home affairs editor

Ex-marine chosen by Labour to stand against Johnny Mercer in Plymouth

Fred Thomas standing with his arms folded
Fred Thomas, who is standing for Labour against Johnny Mercer in Plymouth at the next general election. Photograph: Linda Nylind/The Guardian

A former Royal Marines captain is aiming to neutralise Johnny Mercer’s electoral “trump card” of having a military service record, after being selected by Labour to stand against the veterans minister at the next general election.

Fred Thomas, 31, who spent seven years in the elite commando force, will be attempting to overturn a nearly 13,000 Conservative majority in Plymouth Moor View.

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