Two jobs Williamson condemned

2.30.34pm BST (GMT +0100) Mon 12th Apr 2010

Controversial former Labour Council Leader Chris Williamson has come under-fire for wanting to become MP for the Derby North constituency and a Derby city councillor in Derby South on May the 6th.

"Two jobs Wiliamson " as he has been dubbed by Derby residents, is well known for his controversial attempt to bring in congestion charging for Derby. He also faced a backlash from local people over his plans for parking meters in Littleover.

The main challenger to become our next local MP, Lib Dem Lucy Care, decided last year not to stand for re-election to the Council in Littleover.

Lucy Care said "I have represented Littleover on the Council since 1993. Many thanks to everyone who has supported me during my time as a councillor. It was a difficult decision not to stand again as I have enjoyed the challenge and responsibility of representing local people. But I've more and more found that I can't do what people want in Derby as policy is controlled from London.

"I cannot see how anyone can properly do both jobs properly. Both require a huge amount of time and effort," added Lucy. "If elected I will be a full-time and dedicated MP for Derby North.

If Williamson wins both elections he can either chose to stay on as a councillor or stand down and force a by-election. If he stays on he will find it difficult with a hectic parliamentary schedule to attend council meetings.

If he resigns then taxpayers will have to foot the bill for a

by-election, estimated to be £6,000.

Other confirmed candidates for Derby North include Northampton resident Stephen Mold who starts in third place for the Conservatives.