I have decided to fight to recapture my former Twickenham seat because I believe this could be a defining election in which my party plays a crucial role.

Full statement

Britain is in danger of becoming a de facto one-party state and I am determined to fight the extreme version of Brexit chosen by the Conservatives.

As former Business Secretary I am particularly concerned about the consequences of a hard Brexit on manufacturing industries and services exporters if the UK leaves the Single Market, as well as the impact on supply chain industries such as cars and aerospace whose presence in the UK depends on tariff-free and inspection-free access to the EU through the customs union.

There was strong local opposition to a hard Brexit in Twickenham, and Brexit was a big issue for people in this area. I am also campaigning on topics like Heathrow expansion, social care and cuts to local schools.