No. Mr Bridge, as you inadvertently respectfully call him, could never be selected by a party. He supports left wing politics but has right wing skeletons in the old cupboards.

Far better leaving him shouting at his keyboard where he can do less harm. I'll keep him occupied. I know, I know, I am statesmanlike enough to be Prime Minister but Bridge needs a key worker and nobody else puts up with the miserable old Sod .