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Ex Sun editor (1981 - 1993) and man of the people, Kelvin MacKenzie, looks like he might be in the running to challenge cheeky David Davis in the by-election triggered by yesterday's decision on 42 day detention. Speaking on Radio 4's today programme, Rubert Murdoch's old lapdog went on the record to provide two reasons as to why he might run:

"One is that the Sun is very, very hostile to David Davis because of his 28-day stand, and the Sun has always been up for 42 days, or perhaps even 420 days, frankly. And secondly this is a bizarre cost to the taxpayer."

Mackenzie also made it clear that media mogul Murdoch will be keen to support him, as will current Sun editor Rebekah Wade. If Mackenzie does run and receive backing from the Sun, not only will he stand a good chance of winning, but he will also be able to take a place in the pantheon of politicians receiving support from the Sun during election time such as Tony Blair, Boris Johnson, and, Mackenzie's personal hero, Margaret Thatcher.

The Guardian has put it forward that Mackenzie's party crashing will likely create a media circus out the by-election, as there will most likely be little or no opposition from the mainstream parties. Gordon Brown has condemned Davis's resignation as being a "stunt that has become a farce". He did not reveal whether or not Labour will be entering a candidate in the election.

Mackenzie was the editor of the Sun during its 1980s heyday. He brought the paper to prominence and prosperity through such famous headlines as 'Freddie Star Ate My Hamster' and some seriously hardcore support in favour of his buddy, Margaret Thatcher.

Written by Oli Anderson on 13 Jun 2008 9:42 AM. Permalink