Long-serving Islington North MP Jeremy Corbyn has announced he will run for leadership of the Labour Party.

https://twitter.com/MildmayLabour/status/606191034075348992

Mr Corbyn, who retained his seat with a record majority in May, more than 30 years after first becoming MP, will represent the left leaning members of the party.

The tireless anti-war campaigner, who on re-election said the Tory victory was “bad news for the poor of Britain”, has vowed to stand “on a clear anti austerity platform as distinct from all other candidates”.

Other hopefuls to replace Ed Miliband include shadow health secretary Andy Burnham and shadow home secretary Yvette Cooper whose list of backers within the party includes Islington South MP Emily Thornberry.

Mr Corbyn said: “This decision to stand is in response to an overwhelming call by Labour Party members who want to see a broader range of candidates and a thorough debate about the future of the party.

“I am standing to give Labour party members a voice in this debate.”