Former Solihull MP Julian Knight not concerned to be behind in polls

Solihull's former MP says he is not concerned by polls showing him trailing other candidates. Julian Knight has also given more explanation on why he made a U-turn to stand at this election as an independent in the Solihull West and Shirley seat.

The 52-year-old was previously elected as Conservative MP but has sat in the House of Commons as an independent since 2022 after having the whip removed. That followed allegations made against Mr Knight about his behaviour - but he always maintained his innocence. The whip was never restored by the party despite police later clearing him of any wrongdoing.

A year ago Mr Knight said he would not stand in this general election but after Prime Minister Rishi Sunak called the election he announced the U-turn. Asked about his suspension - and the PM’s recent comments in support of not returning the whip - Mr Knight said: “I cannot comment extensively as there is an active police investigation into allegations of fraud, forgery, and perversion of the course of justice related to the false claims against me.

READ MORE: New poll forecasts shock General Election result in Solihull seat

“I have been fully cleared by both the Metropolitan Police and Essex Police, without any arrest. When it comes to an innocent man who was neither arrested, charged, nor the subject of any parliamentary investigation he (the PM) throws them under a bus because they asked too many tough questions.”

With polls appearing to be close between Labour and the Conservatives, asked if by standing it would help split the vote and lead to a Labour victory the candidate said: “My decision to stand as an independent is not about party politics but about ensuring Solihull West and Shirley has an MP dedicated to their interests, free from party constraints. Our community deserves representation focused on local needs and priorities, not party agendas.

“I’m not concerned about the polls. Our campaign has received a very positive response. It’s clear people in Solihull aren’t interested in Labour.

“They want someone with a proven track record of delivering results. That’s me. I’m here to continue serving our community with the dedication it deserves.”

Mr Knight said if elected again he would “make sure Solihull gets the attention it deserves”. Among his top priorities he named getting a "better deal" with the West Midlands Combined Authority.

“Solihull deserves its fair share, and I won’t rest until we get it,” Mr Knight said. “I’m also committed to keeping Solihull police station open as I have worked to do for the last nine years, ensuring our community stays safe.”