FORMER agriculture minister Jim Fitzpatrick, the new MP for Poplar & Limehouse, has tonight welcomed Gordon Brown’s decision to step down as leader of the Labour Party

FORMER agriculture minister Jim Fitzpatrick, the new MP for Poplar & Limehouse, has tonight welcomed Gordon Brown's decision to step down as leader of the Labour Party.

Mr Fitzpatrick told the East London Advertiser shortly after Mr Brown announced his move at a Downing Street press conference: "It's good that Gordon has acknowledged the view of the electorate and announced his resignation. He leaves with dignity and allows the party to choose a new leader."

The latest betting odds from William Hill on Mr Brown's successor show David Milliband is favourite at 4-to-7 on, Alan Johnson 6/1 and Ed Miliband at 9/1.