Rantzen 'considering standing as MP'

Esther Rantzen has revealed that she is considering standing as an independent MP for Luton South in the next general election.

The television personality's decision to fight for the seat comes in the wake of the expenses scandal that has marred the reputation of current Labour MP Margaret Moran.

"I think Margaret Moran's claim for £22,500 to get the dry rot off her house 100 miles away was a disgrace and she has paid it back, but she has paid it back now we know about it," she told Sky News.

"I was shocked and, God knows, the people of Luton are right to be shocked.

"It's a very complex situation now in Luton South. I would be very happy to stand against her, I don't know who will be standing again, so it's a fluid situation."

Asked yesterday about her likelihood of standing, she replied: "I would say 80% on. I think I am more likely to go for it."