Blur drummer Dave Rowntree will stand as a member of parliament (MP) for the Labour Party at this year’s UK general election. Rowntree previously won a seat as a Labour representative in local government, for Norfolk County Council, before standing down in 2021, citing shielding responsibilities to his family during the pandemic. Now, Labour have selected Rowntree to fight for the more senior role of MP, in the Conservative-held seat of Mid Sussex.
Rowntree said in a statement, “Residents have their best chance in a generation to make their vote count and return a Labour MP to parliament. The Tories have run out of ideas, and the Lib Dems have run out of steam. I’m running for parliament to provide the energy and vision the area so desperately needs.” The UK general election will be held by January 28 next year, likely sooner.
Rowntree presently remains active in Blur, who are set to play Coachella 2024, among other upcoming shows. The group reformed last year, releasing The Ballad of Darren, but its future remains uncertain, as does Rowntree’s involvement should the reunion extend. He released the solo album Radio Songs last year.