New Labour's Blair-Brown Bust-Up, And A Leadership Challenge From The Left ...

Hands up, anyone who can honestly say with their hand on their heart, that they recognise the grey haired guy shown left.

Hardly anyone, we'll wager.

So, helpful as ever, we're here today to tell you that this is who he is.

John McDonnell, MP for Hayes and Harlingon and chair of the parliamentary Socialist Campaign Group ...

So what? -- we surmise some are certain to say.

Here's what.

Mr McDonnell is the first MP to openly declare his intention to stand against Mr Brown following speculation that the chancellor would be unopposed in his bid for the leadership.

Surprised?

Well, we're sure a lot of you are.

As indeed we pair were, when we first found out.

Here's another excerpt from the same Guardian piece published just a few weeks ago.

Mr McDonnell rejected claims that by standing he was set to scupper the chances of a more recognised leftwing challenger.

"It is perfectly open for others to put in their name and open the debate. What we aim to do is maximise our support."

Starting to sound sort of interesting, eh?

A bit of a dark horse hanging about, eh?

So, here's something straight from said dark horse's mouth.

"New Labour has systematically alienated section after section of our supporters - teachers, health workers, students, pensioners, public service workers, trade unionists and people committed to the environment, civil liberties and peace.

"Spin and allegations of sleaze are causing decent people to lose trust in our party.

"This is reflected in lost votes, lost elections, lost members and ...

Okay, teasing time is over.

Hit the link to learn more about the man.

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