Mandelson: I will not return to Government

Despite declaring himself last year to be a "fighter, not a quitter", Peter Mandelson yesterday appeared to have abandoned his dream of an unlikely return to Government.

Mr Mandelson, who resigned from the Cabinet twice in just over two years, said he would not accept a ministerial post even if offered it by Tony Blair.

The Prime Minister's decision to reopen the inquiry into the Hinduja passport controversy prompted reports that a way back to Whitehall was being prepared for him.

But Mr Mandelson said: "I have heard the speculation about returning to Government. I'm not going to do so. I'm not going to go back to Government even if I'm asked."

The MP for Hartlepool told BBC Radio Cleveland: "I want to make my contribution away from ministerial office."