Sunak refuses to endorse Peter Bone’s partner to replace him in byelection

‘Candidate selection is done locally, so local members in their area can choose a given candidate,’ Rishi Sunak said at a PM Connect event at Accrington Stanley Football Club Photograph: Reuters

Rishi Sunak has refused to endorse the partner of the disgraced former Conservative MP Peter Bone to replace him as the party’s candidate in the Wellingborough byelection.

Helen Harrison’s selection on Sunday has drawn controversy given the byelection was triggered after more than 10% of local voters signed a petition to recall Bone after revelations about his behaviour.