Esther McVey is aiming to stand in George Osborne’s seat of Tatton

Labour

Members of Jeremy Corbyn’s inner team are lining up to take possession of seats, including some left vacant by his most high-profile critics.

Katy Clark, the Labour leader’s political secretary who lost her North Ayrshire and Arran seat in the party’s Scottish wipeout two years ago, wants to return to a safer berth, according to insiders.

Ellie Reeves is among those seeking to contest seats for Labour RAY TANG/REX FEATURES

Also eyeing a safe seat is David Prescott, a former speechwriter to Mr Corbyn and son of the former deputy prime minister, who is reported to have thrown his hat into the ring to replace Alan Johnson, the former home secretary who is stepping down as MP for Hull West.

John McDonnell, shadow chancellor, is also hoping to parachute allies, including James Mills, his press secretary, into Westminster.