Barry Gardiner 'set to launch bid for Labour leadership'

LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND - SEPTEMBER 26: Barry Gardiner, Shadow secretary for international trade addresses delegates on day two of the Labour party conferenceon September 26, 2016 in Liverpool, England. Earlier today the Labour Shadow Chancellor John McDonnell stated that if in power a Labour government would create a 'manufacturing renaissance'. Labour would also support traditional manufacturing and industry with government 'intervention' if needed. The shadow chancellor also rejected claims that the party is anti-enterprise. (Photo by Christopher Furlong/Getty Images) (Picture: Getty Images)

Barry Gardiner is reportedly lining up a bid to succeed Jeremy Corbyn as Labour leader.

The Brent North MP is to become a late entrant to the race, following the pack of six currently vying for the position.

He is seeking support from fellow MPs for his bid, according to the Huffington Post.

It is reported that he has been contacted by Unite boss Len McCluskey and among a number of shadow ministers the union chief asked to stand.

A source close to the shadow international trade secretary told the Huffington Post: “Barry recognises the challenges the party faces over the next five years and believes he has the broad base of support, experience and loyalty to the party to win the race and take the fight to the Tories.”

He would join Sir Keir Starmer, Rebecca Long-Bailey, Jess Phillips, Emily Thornberry, Lisa Nandy and Clive Lewis in the race.

Sir Keir is currently tipped as the frontrunner, while he has also received the support of the union Unison.

The contest is set to end on April 4, with Mr Corbyn's successor to be announced on April 4.