Jack Straw to step down as Labour MP for Blackburn

Jack Straw is to stand down as Labour MP for Blackburn at the next general election, he has announced.

Mr Straw, 67, was elected in 1979 and has stood in eight general elections in the Lancashire constituency.

He said he had made the decision to stand down after a great deal of thought and consultation with friends and family.

Chris Mason says Mr Straw feels he is "a bit too old" to continue.