LABOUR has opened selections for the Islington North seat of its last leader, Jeremy Corbyn.

Last year the party’s executive barred Mr Corbyn from standing for the party on vague grounds asserting that he would undermine its vote. He has represented Islington North since 1983, last being elected with a 26,188 majority.

Journalist Paul Mason is understood to have confirmed he will seek the Labour nomination for the seat.

Applications will close on May 20 and the successful candidate will be announced in June Mr Corbyn is widely expected to stand as an independent.