Ealing Southall’s prominent Remain supporting Labour MP Virendra Sharma has heavily lost a vote of no confidence.

One of London’s most vocal anti-Brexiteers, the 71-year old has represented the constituency since 2007 and was reelected with 49 percent of the vote two years ago.

He voted against triggering Article 50 and has worked closely with Gina Miller’s Best for Britain group.

However, Mr Sharma, who hadn't attended a local party meeting for 21 months before last night, lost the vote by 41 to 18, with 59 local Labour members attending the meeting.

Mr Sharma’s lack of engagement with the local party and low parliamentary attendance rates, when compared to fellow Ealing MPs Stephen Pound and Rupa Huq, was cited by his critics, who also questioned his ‘slow and inadequate’ response to case work. However, Ealing council leader Julian Bell opposed the no-confidence vote.

“Ealing Southall CLP recognises that, in bringing this vote of no confidence in Virendra Sharma, our delegates have exercised their democratic rights as provided for under the rules of the Labour Party,” said Dr Onkar Sahota, the chair of the local constituency party.

“I am pleased that the debate was conducted in an orderly and respectful manner and that we were able to hear a range of opinions from across the community – from those who feel frustrated with Mr Sharma’s performance and his representation of Ealing Southall constituency, as well as from those who believe he has served his constituents well as its MP of 12 year.

“Ealing Southall is a hugely diverse community, and our local Labour Party membership reflects that. 

“Tonight’s vote represents a decision that has made by delegates from across those diverse groupings, and we full respect our members’ democratic right to have voted no confidence in Virendra Sharma MP, and to take that decision forward to the next stage.”

Mr Sharma famously resigned his position as a private parliamentary secretary in opposition to the then Labour government’s support of a third runaway at Heathrow.

However, two years ago he announced he was now supporting the expansion at the airport. 

Mr Sharma is yet to comment on the decision of his local party.