Michael Daley will not contest Labor leadership

Michael Daley has announced he will not contest the Labor leadership at the ballot to be held after the federal election — just one day after saying he would run for it.

• NSW Labor to vote on new leader

Michael Daley has announced he will not contest the Labor leadership at the ballot to be held after the federal election — just one day after saying he would run for it.

“The Member for Maroubra, Michael Daley, announced today he would not be a candidate in the ballot for leader of the State Parliamentary Labor Party,” a statement released this afternoon said.

The decision was made after he consulted his colleagues and family.

Michael Daley has announced he will not contest the Labor leadership. Picture: AAP

The statement said Mr Daley “did not wish to be a distraction for the federal campaign and that after the state election loss, he wanted the NSW party to have clear air for the selection of a new leader”.

“I have always put the interests of the party first and in making this decision, continue to do so,” Mr Daley said.

“I intend to remain the Member for Maroubra. I have spoken to the Interim Leader, Penny Sharpe and have advised her that I will be taking leave over the next few weeks to spend time with my family.”