Chuka Umunna Set To Stand For Keith Vaz's Old Job

Labour MP Chuka Umunna is expected to stand for the chairmanship of the powerful Commons Home Affairs Select Committee.

It follows the resignation of Keith Vaz, who quit the post he has held since 2007 following allegations about his private life.

It is thought that former Labour Cabinet minister Yvette Cooper could also throw her hat into the ring.

Mr Umunna already sits on the committee, and it is thought he is supported by many of the other members.

He is still to officially confirm his candidacy, but a friend of the Streatham MP, said: "Having consulted colleagues and been approached by colleagues from both sides of the House, he has decided he is going to put his name forward."

On Tuesday, Mr Umunna said it was too soon after Mr Vaz's departure to talk about who would replace him.

"I am very sad to see Keith step down but believe he has made the right decision by Parliament and those we serve," said Mr Umunna.

"It is incredibly important the committee carries on the important work we are doing scrutinising government."

Ms Cooper is not a member of the committee, but has experience as a former shadow home secretary.

She is reportedly considering standing after colleagues suggested she should.

The chairman is bound to be a Labour MP under the rules governing allocation of committee chairmanships. All MPs will get a vote.

Veteran Labour committee member David Winnick said: "I would be surprised if whoever is elected as chairman will be following the style of Keith Vaz, any more than Keith Vaz followed the style of his predecessors John Denham and Chris Mullin."

Tory MP Tim Loughton has taken over as acting chair of the committee, until Mr Vaz's replacement is elected.