Green party stands aside in Shipley to clear the field for equality candidate

The party is instead urging supporters to get behind the Women's Equality Party (WEP) candidate Sophie Walker in an effort to oust incumbent Tory MP Philip Davies.

It follows an appeal by leader Caroline Lucas for all centre-left, progressive parties to work together to ensure anti-Brexit MPs in marginal constituencies retain their seats.

Commenting on the decision by the Bradford party branch, she said Ms Walker stand on an agenda "that many Green Party members and supporters will agree with"

"Under the Conservative government – the one Mr Davies has supported – we have seen the biggest rise in inequality since Margaret Thatcher was prime minister," Ms Lucas said.

“Sophie.. is also committed to a fair voting system, to campaigning to undo the privatisation of our NHS and to protecting the local environment, such as by opposing the plans to build an incinerator in Keighley."

In 2015, Mr Davies enjoyed a 9,624 lead over his closest rival - Labour candidate Steve Clapcote - with 25,269 votes. The Greens received just 2,657.

Bradford Green party campaign coordinator Matt Edwards said it had become obvious that there was "not enough support" for alternative candidates separately and "urgent and unconventional action" was needed.

Ms Walker confirmed she would stand against Mr Davies in the June election at the weekend, accusing the Tory MP of failing to represent "the needs and interests of all its constituents".

In a recent interview with this paper she claimed the former bookkeeper "has underestimated just how cross the community he was elected to represent is about his behaviour".

Responding to the Green Party announcement, Ms Walker added: “Our campaign will be one that values equality and fights injustice to build a caring, tolerant and sustainable future for all.

"At a time when the politics of division espoused by Philip Davies and so many others threatens the future prosperity and growth of the UK, the Green Party has been brave enough to set party politics aside to come together for the people of Shipley.

“Together we will show that a collaborative and progressive politics can transform our economy and society, by giving opportunities to all."