MP Flynn calls for Brown to quit

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A Welsh Labour MP has joined calls from within his party for Gordon Brown to step down.

Newport West MP Paul Flynn said the Prime Minister was "indecisive" over MPs' expenses and should make a "swift and orderly exit".

It comes after former work and pensions secretary James Purnell stepped down from the cabinet and urged the Prime Minister to "stand aside".

However, other MPs in Wales have offered their support to Mr Brown.

Wales Office minister Wayne David called him the best person to lead the country.

Mr David told BBC Wales' Dragon's Eye programme that Mr Purnell was part of a "very small and distinct minority", and the "silent majority" in the Parliamentary Labour Party (PLP) continued to support the prime minister.

He said he was "absolutely convinced" Mr Brown would lead the party into the next election.

"He's unquestionably the best person to lead this country. I believe not only ministers recognise that but I believe the overwhelming mass of Labour MPs believe that as well," said Mr David, the Caerphilly MP.

"Many ministers, many members of the Parliamentary Labour Party stand absolutely firmly behind Gordon Brown.

"He's got the policies, the perspective and the strength to take us forward."

But Mr Flynn said he hoped that Mr Brown accepted "the expected majority opinion of the Parliamentary Labour Party and he makes a swift and orderly exit".

"He's been heavy-footed, indecisive and defensive on MPs' expenses and many MPs have been unhappy with that. There is now a wide coalition asking for change in the PLP," added Mr Flynn.

Labour's Kevin Brennan, Cardiff West MP and parliamentary under secretary in the cabinet office, said he was surprised by Mr Purnell's resignation which he thought was unnecessary and out of line with the feelings of the PLP.

Dai Havard, Labour MP for Merthyr Tydfil and Rhymney, said that bigger names than Mr Purnell might be required to resign from the cabinet in order for Mr Brown to stand down.

"It's going to be an interesting few days but I think heavier hitters will need to come forward if Gordon Brown is to stand down.

"It will be interesting to see what the people around (Lord) Mandelson do. If they start moving, who knows?" he said.

Nia Griffiths Labour MP for Llanelli reiterated her support for Gordon Brown. She told BBC Radio Cymru hat a large majority of MPs as well as the public were in favour of a stable government and an experienced prime minister.

<li> Meanwhile, Pembrokeshire Council which is co-ordinating European election results for the whole of Wales says the turnout in Wales on Thursday was 30.5%. </li>