The Co-operative Party has backed Liverpool Wavertree MP Luciana Berger as its candidate for the newly created role of Mayor of the Liverpool City Region.

In her statement for the nomination, Luciana Berger said:

I want to be the Labour & Co-operative candidate for Metro Mayor because I believe in this region and the potential of our people. I believe we need a fresh start and radical ambition to make our region successful, prosperous and more equal.

I have long been a champion for co-operative values and principles in British politics and public life. I am proud of my record in standing up for energy co-operatives and co-operative development internationally.

As a Labour & Co-operative Mayor I would be honoured to continue this work. I believe there is great scope for the new Mayor to build a more co-operative region. Co-operative solutions offer answers to some of the biggest policy challenges our region faces whether it be social and economic inclusion, housing or transport.

I will bring my expertise in local co-operative energy projects to ensure that – in spite of central Government’s lack of support – the region develops co-operative and community owned renewable energy. I believe that there needs to be a strong passenger voice and representation within our transport networks and I am keen to explore the extent the not-for-profit sector can add to our bus network.

As ever I will be keen to work with the wider co-operative family to bring the best of our movement to the fore, ensuring that everyone in the region benefits from the strength and sustainability of co-operation and mutualism. I believe together we can tackle inequality and make a happy, healthy and beautiful region for all.