Minister to quit at election

A Labour frontbencher facing a major battle to keep his seat revealed today he is to quit politics.

Defence Minister Ivor Caplin, 46, is to stand down at the next general election. His announcement stunned colleagues.

Mr Caplin, who has a majority of 3,171 in Hove and Portslade, was facing a fierce challenge for his seat from Tory high-flier Nicholas Boles, 38.

He said: "There are other opportunities and other challenges I would like to pursue. This is not about policy or politics and Tony Blair will continue to have my strong support."

Mr Boles said: "No one can blame him for deciding to quit while he is ahead."