Chris Bryant and Richard Holden

Minister Chris Bryant brutally mocked Richard Holden in the Commons this morning by reminding him of the unusual way he was selected as an election candidate.

Holden, who was the Tory chairman a year ago but is now the shadow paymaster general, was moved into a safe Conservative seat ahead of the 2024 election.

He was effectively imposed on the Basildon and Billericay constituency in Essex just before the selection deadline after his previous North West Durham seat was abolished.

It sparked a significant backlash at the time and Tory bosses were accused of a “stitch-up”.

Bryant, the culture, music and sport minister, could not wait to remind Holden of his “chicken run” when the opposition MP stood up to ask him a question.

The Tory MP asked if the government could make sure it secures touring rights for........

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