SHORT QUIT RUMOUR "ENTIRELY PLAUSIBLE"

12-09-2006

Rumours that Clare Short could be about to announce her decision to quit as an MP have been described as “entirely plausible” by one senior Labour party source.

The Stirrer hasn't been able to contact Short despite making strenuous efforts, but we've spoken to an eye witness to a symposium she took part in at Kingston University.

He said that the Ladywood MP shocked those attending by saying that she wouldn't seek to stand again for parliament.

The trigger for her decision could be the approaching deadline for candidates - MPs have to declare their intention to stand by 17 September.

Short, is also known to have found romance with Jon Norton, widower of the late Mo Mowlam.

One Labour source said: "She's done her time."

Born in Birmingham of Irish parents, Short was International Development Secretary for six years until she quit in May 2003 after disagreeing with Tony Blair over the reconstruction of Iraq.

It was a minor miracle that the outspoken Brummie remained in the cabinet for so long - she called Blair “reckless” on the eve of the war - and even those who disagree with policies acknowledge her honesty and integrity.

In 1986 she famously campaigned against the Sun's Page Three girls, but made tabloid headlines herself when it was revealed that she gave up a son for adoption when she was a teenager.

More news as we have it.

WOULD CLARE SHORT BE MISSED?