Where is Alan Johnson?

Alan Johnson is a top contender for the post of next Labour leader and, possibly PM, depending on how things pan out. A plain speaker and the only would-be leader the Conservatives are said to really fear, he has at least the possibility of acting as the vital bridge between the core Labour vote, the trade unions and the middle classes.

We have heard from a few ministers since the Glasgow East debacle and the Miliband leadership explosion. Jack Straw, Jacqui Smith, Hattie Harman, Alistair Darling have at least gone through the motions of expressing support for their under fire boss. I could be wrong but I can't recall so much as a peep coming from Johnson.

As the febrile mood intensifies over the Miliband furore, speculation will undoubtedly turn to Alan Johnson as MPs will want to know where he stands. Anything less from Johnson than an unequivocal backing of Gordon Brown will reallly light the touchpaper under the now inevitable battle for the top Labour job. Come out, come out, wherever you are.....