Unions are set to step in and save the career of controversial Birmingham MP Roger Godsiff - if Labour activists try to deselect him.
Party members will meet on Sunday to confirm Mr Godsiff's re-selection as candidate for the Sparkbrook and Small Heath constituency, just a day before Tony Blair is expected to announce a General Election.
Mr Godsiff was criticised by Labour colleagues earlier this year when he said Britain was full and could take no more economic migrants. In recent weeks he has been drawn into the controversy over vote-rigging allegations in last year's local elections, the subject of a High Court hearing.
But any moves to sack him as the Labour candidate will be blocked by the GMB union, which sponsors him.
The reaffirmation meeting involves a vote of the four ward branches of the party, representing Labour members across the constituency, and 15 affiliated organisations.
Nine of the affiliated bodies are branches of the GMB, giving the union a huge say over the appointment. The union is continuing to support Mr Godsiff. It means he only needs one vote from a ward branch or another affiliate to be safe.
The re-selection of Khalid Mahmood, MP for Perry Barr, has also been delayed and will take place tomorrow.
His selection was fiercely opposed in 2001 by some local members.
There has been some speculation Mr Mahmood could face deselection because of his loyal support of the Government - despite the anger of some constituents over Iraq.
