SPECULATION is mounting over who will stand for one of the region's 'safe' Labour seats as party chiefs insist on pressing ahead with an all-women shortlist.

Amid claims it is sexist, North West Durham members hoped the controversial decision to field only female candidates would be overturned.

At a meeting last night, however, the National Executive Committee (NEC) refused to budge on the policy which is being introduced in all the party's winnable seats.

The ruling will leave many within the Constituency Labour Party (CLP) disgruntled.

MP Hilary Armstrong announced she would stand down in June to make way for new blood before the next general election.

The former cabinet minister has represented North West Durham, which covers Wear Valley and part of Derwentside, for 22 years.

Her seat is widely regarded as Labour heartland and the candidacy is therefore expected to attract national interest from some of the party's most ambitious activists.

A spokesman for Labour North said: "We are pleased that the North West Durham Labour party will soon commence the selection process.

"This has been a difficult decision for the local party and the Labour party is very grateful for the manner that the CLP has conducted itself during this time."

No timetable for the selection process has been confirmed.

Read the full story in Monday's Northern Echo