Andrew Smith’s retirement is the end of an era for Oxford Labour.

Andrew has been an amazing MP and is a man of great integrity. He will be sorely missed by the party. For many, the news has not even started to sink in. We know from talking to residents on the doorstep across all parts of the city about the personal loyalty he built up over decades of hard work alongside his late wife Val on behalf of individuals and for the benefit of our constituency.

 A great number of people all over the constituency have told our campaigners they’re ‘Andrew Smith Labour’ when we knocked on their doors. People often comment upon his approachability and down to earth qualities. It is these attributes together with his good common sense, level-headedness and experience that will be sorely missed. He has helped so many people and Oxford will be sad to see him go.

All of us in Oxford Labour owe a huge debt of gratitude to Andrew. We will now focus our efforts on ensuring that his successor continues Andrew’s good work for the people of Oxford East.