COLCHESTER’S MP has challenged a man who criticised his involvement in a meeting of regional politicians to “get involved on the pitch rather than shouting from the touchline”.

Bob Russell has been asked by Eddie Bone, vice-president of Workers of England Union, to “explain his stance towards England”.

The challenge followed Mr Russell’s chairing of last month’s abortive meeting of the East of England Regional Grand Committee.

The gathering of the region’s MPs was abandoned after it was boycotted by Tory MPs, who said it was a waste of time and money.

Mr Bone, of Nelson Road, Colchester, said: “By attending, Bob has shown he believes in regionalisation and the breakup of England, and has to explain these views.

“This is an important issue for Colchester, because it affects how we are governed and how services are funded. All we are asking for is a constructive debate on a topic that is becoming more and more relevant, but Bob has refused to engage.”

Mr Russell said the committee had been created after a vote in Parliament. He added: “This is in no way leading to the break-up of England, but if Mr Bone believes that, he should stand for Parliament and seek a mandate for what he believes in.

“I’ve got far more important things to get on with in representing the people of Colchester than engaging with this man on this issue.”

Mr Bone responded: “If everyone asks Bob a question that he doesn’t like, is that always going to be his response? I will not rule out standing as an MP but at the moment I am occupied with running an independent trade union.”