Jeremy Corbyn confirms talks with Labour MPs over shadow positions

Jeremy Corbyn has confirmed he has sounded out fellow MPs about forming a frontbench team if he wins the Labour leadership, and has names in mind for shadow chancellor and shadow foreign secretary.

The favourite to succeed Ed Miliband insisted he was not “scared” at the prospect of taking on his party’s top job after a career on the back benches.

He insisted he will remain “a normal human being” if he wins tomorrow, and hinted he may reject some of the trappings of the office of leader of Her Majesty’s official opposition.

Mr Corbyn's comments came after a rival for the leadership, Liz Kendall, effectively conceded defeat and made clear she is likely to become a frequent rebel if the Islington North MP wins the ballot of 550,000 Labour members and supporters.

There were calls from a prominent Labour MP for an inquiry into the election – and those for deputy leader and London mayoral candidate – after claims many activists did not receive ballot papers by the deadline for voting at noon yesterday. –(PA)