Prime Minister backs Iain Gray to lead Labour in Scotland

Jul 6 2008 By Mark Aitken Political Editor

IAIN GRAY has emerged as the front-runner to become Scottish Labour leader after being backed by Gordon Brown.

Gray has overtaken Andy Kerr in the race to replace Wendy Alexander after doubts whether his rival will stand.

Kerr was the bookies' favourite but is considering withdrawing for his family's sake.

Gray, Labour's finance spokesman, has been busy lobbying for support while on holiday in Spain.

Cathy Jamieson, Scottish Labour's deputy leader, is also seeking the top job.

A Labour insider said: "Brown's preferred option is Iain Gray. He won't overtly support him but he is the one Gordon would like to see lead the party in Scotland."

MSPs are bitterly opposed to any interference from the Prime Minister.

But most Labour's Scottish MPs are believed to favour Edinburgh Pentlands MSP Gray, who is seen as a strong Unionist candidate.

East Kilbride MSP Kerr, Labour's public services spokesman, backed Wendy Alexander's calls for an early referendum on Scottish independence.

The contest for the Scottish Labour leadership has effectively been put on hold by the main contenders all going on holiday.

A leader is due to be selected by MSPs, MPs, Euro MPs, Labour members and affiliated trade union members before October.

Labour was plunged into a leadership battle by the resignation of Alexander just over a week ago after she was rapped for breaking cash donation rules.

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