Margaret Hodge for London Mayor?

I’ve just finished recording the Guardian Politics podcast – which will be on their website later – during which Polly Toynbee said that she thought Margaret Hodge might throw her hat into the ring for Mayor of London. It’s a rumour I’ve heard a few times this week myself, and it certainly seems like the combative PAC Chair is considering a run at the role. But it could be a crowded field.

And of course that selection contest will now be an open primary following Ed Miliband’s speech on Tuesday – something that Sadiq Khan (a potential mayoral candidate and Shadow Minister for London) was quick to welcome.

Other names mooted in the past have included David Lammy, Jon Cruddas, Oona King,Stella Creasy, Diane Abbott and of course, Eddie Izzard. Alan Johnson has ruled himself out of the running, whilst Transport expert Christian Wolmar has already announced his candidacy.