Bookies Predict Rantzen Won't Make It To Luton Poll

Ha! Ladbrokes are quoting me 4/6 odds on that Esther Rantzen will pull out before nominations close for Luton South. That means they think this is more likely than a Rantzen win. Wise people, these bookies.

One thing which occurred to me. I wonder if she realises that in the unlikely event that she wins, all her outside earnings will have to be declared, along with the hours she spends on them.

I am also sure that she will demonstrate her commitment to the good burghers of Luton by moving there as soon as practicable. It's a bit of a commute from Hampstead, after all. Although to be fair, Margaret Moran managed it from Southampton :).

Esther's Ego Lands in Luton

To be honest I am astonished that La Rantzen has decided to stand in Luton South. Either she has got friends who have given her very bad advice or her ego is bigger than we all thought. Whatever her motivation, I just can't understand the point of it. What point is she trying to make? Margaret Moran is standing down. She's gone. History. If Esther really wanted to get her teeth into someone, why not pick on someone who has done wrong but is still in situ.

It's difficult to judge what effect her candidacy will have. Ladbrokes have shortened her odds to 4/1 but still make the Conservatives odds on favourites at 4/7. Conservative candidate Nigel Huddlestone has issued a 'through gritted teeth statement', as well he might. He warns that she could let Labour in through the back door.

Hopefully the people of Luton will be more sensible, although my head tells me that come the day, there won't be a candidate called Rantzen on the ballot paper. I might ring Ladbrokes and see what odds they will quote me on her pulling out before the close of nominations....