Call to ensure city retains MP numbers

Labour peer George Foulkes has called for a guarantee that Edinburgh will continue to have five MPs despite plans to downsize the House of Commons.

The Lothians MSP put the Capital's case as part of the epic battle being waged in the House of Lords over Government attempts to redraw the UK's political map.

Peers have already had one all-night sitting as they debate the Parliamentary Voting and Constituencies Bill and face the prospect of another today unless compromises can be reached.

The controversial plans aim to cut the Commons from 650 to 600 constituencies with strictly equal voter numbers.

The Bill, which also includes plans for a referendum on changing the voting system, faces a tight timetable to get through both Houses of Parliament if the referendum is to go ahead as planned on May 5.