Neil Kinnock's son Stephen selected to fight Aberavon seat

Stephen Kinnock, son of the former Labour leader Neil Kinnock, has been selected as the Labour candidate for Aberavon at the 2015 general election.

Mr Kinnock, 44, is married to Danish Prime Minister Helle Thorning-Schmidt.

He is based in London and works for the business advisory company Xynteo, and worked for the British Council and the World Economic Forum.

Aberavon MP Hywel Francis announced last November his intention to step down in 2015.

Mr Kinnock was selected by a meeting of local members in Aberavon on Saturday.

Afterwards, he said: "I am delighted to have won the support of the local members as the Labour candidate for Aberavon.

"Hywel Francis has been a fantastic advocate for the constituency in Westminster and he leaves very big shoes to fill.

"My campaign starts now and I'm looking forward to pounding the pavements and putting Labour's offer to the people of Aberavon."

Mr Kinnock, who was born in Tredegar, is the son of former Labour leader Lord Kinnock and former Labour MEP Glenys Kinnock.

When he announced his intention to seek selection in Aberavon he said: "I have been a member of the Labour Party since I was 15 years old, and of course politics is in my blood.

"But it was always important for me to build my own career before making the decision to stand."

After the local party's decision, Mr Francis said: "I congratulate Stephen Kinnock on his selection.

"I will give Stephen my full support for his election campaign to succeed me as the Labour MP for Aberavon and for the return of a Labour government in 2015."

Stephen Kinnock is married to Danish Prime Minister Helle Thorning-Schmidt