The latest MP's defection to Labour has led to concern from some party members in Ipswich because of Natalie Elphicke's right-wing stance on some issues.

But parliamentary candidate Jack Abbott said he did not expect the shock switch to have much impact with most voters on the ground.

Dover MP Ms Elphicke shocked Westminster on Wednesday when she crossed the floor to the Labour benches just moments before the start of Prime Minister's Questions.

The shock was greater because, unlike Central Suffolk and North Ipswich MP Dr Dan Poulter who made the switch two weeks ago, she has been seen as one of the Tories' more right-wing MPs since her election in 2019.

Her stance on immigration, Brexit, and social policies has always been far removed from Labour - and there was concern about comments she made following the conviction of her former husband for sexual assault.

East Anglian Daily Times: Glen Chisholm was mayor in 2015/16 but was concerned about the arrival of Natalie Elphicke in the Labour Party.Glen Chisholm was mayor in 2015/16 but was concerned about the arrival of Natalie Elphicke in the Labour Party. (Image: Newsquest)

Former Ipswich mayor Glen Chisholm said he had great concerns when he heard she had joined Labour: "I understand why the party was so pleased to get a new recruit, especially when it is someone with experience of being on the front line of the migration crisis.

"But when you look at what she has said in the past, I am uncomfortable with the fact that someone with those kind of views can find a home in my party.

"I'm not able to campaign myself any more, but I've talked to some of my Labour friends and they feel the same way."

Ipswich Labour candidate Jack Abbott said he and his team were entirely focussed on the contest to win the seat in the General Election - but did feel it was significant that the MP for Dover, on the front line of the migration crisis, had given up on the government.

He said:  “A funereal atmosphere seems to have descended on the Conservative Party, but they seem determined to try and drag the country down with them.

“Nationally, the Prime Minister looks like he’s given up, with two defections in as many weeks sandwiching a terrible set of election results.

“In Ipswich, the Conservatives looked shell shocked after losing nearly half a dozen seats. The PM should finally do the right thing and call a General Election.”