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Young Tory who aims to be first in every sense
23 Jul 2009Tory candidate Chloe Smith, 27, would become Britain's youngest MP if she wins Norwich North today.
She would take the title from Liberal Democrat Jo Swinson, who is 29. Not content with setting one record, Ms Smith, left, would also be the youngest Conservative MP for 30 years, the youngest Tory female MP ever… and the first MP to be called Chloe.
Ms Smith has impeccable Cameroonian credentials and some Tory insiders are concerned that the business high-flier, who works for consultancy firm Deloitte's, could be overpromoted if she becomes an MP.
One said: “I fear Cameron will push her straight into some role where she is out of her depth for the sake of the party's profile.”
While senior Tories including David Cameron have poured into the constituency to support her, her Labour rival has not had the best of luck. Chris Ostrowski was struck down with suspected swine flu only days ago.
Julie Kirkbride, who is due to quit as a Tory MP after a storm over her expenses, may seek re-election if local party members in Bromsgrove urge her to stand again, the Standard understands.
