FORMER Barrow MP John Woodcock has been praised for his 'amazing courage' along with other ex-Labour politicians by the new government. 

Michael Gove recognised the 'bravery' of a number of former Labour MPs in turning their backs against a party they 'have voted for all of their lives'.  

Speaking after the Conservatives secured a majority in yesterday's General Election, Mr Gove said: "Labour politicians like Ian Austin, John Woodcock and Ivan Lewis showed amazing courage and are joined by so many other people who have voted Labour all of their lives.

"They are the best of us in so many ways and I am delighted that they recognised that Boris Johnson is the right person to lead this country."