Ex-Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn to stand as independent at election

Jeremy Corbyn is reportedly preparing to announce he will run against Labour, the party he once led, at the general election.

The 74-year-old far Left icon has sat as an independent for almost four years, having been kicked out of the parliamentary party over comments he made about a probe into anti-Semitism under his leadership.

Labour last night unveiled a two-name shortlist for Islington North, the seat Mr Corbyn has represented since 1983, after he was banned from standing.

He has repeatedly dropped hints that he could run as an independent, a move that would kick off a bitter campaign in the north London constituency.

It would also create a headache for Keir Starmer, who has been keen to distance Labour from the policies and controversial of his predecessor.

ITV News reported this afternoon that Mr Corbyn is soon to announce his campaign. If he won he would be able to serve in Parliament until he is 79.

It also raises questions about the future of Diane Abbott. The Hackey North and Stoke Newington MP was also suspended by Labour over remarks she made downplaying anti-gypsy racism.

The 74-year-old far Left icon has sat as an independent for almost four years, having been kicked out of the parliamentary party over comments he made about a probe into anti-Semitism under his leadership.

A run as an independent would create a headache for Keir Starmer, who has been keen to distance Labour from the policies and controversial of his predecessor

It also raises questions about the future of Diane Abbott. The Hackey North and Stoke Newington MP was also suspended by Labour over remarks she made downplaying anti-gypsy racism.

Mr Corbyn spoke in parliament today in a debate about the remaining bills to be passed by Parliament before the election.

But while several MPs who are standing down pointed out they were making their final contributions to the Commons, Mr Corbyn made no such comments, suggesting he hopes to stay on.

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