Lichfield MP Michael Fabricant resigns as whip

Lichfield MP Michael Fabricant has resigned from his role as a Government whip, claiming he has the "seven-year itch".

Mr Fabricant, who was appointed pairing whip shortly after the 2005 election, says it will give him more chance to raise issues in the House of Commons which directly affect his constituents.

He said one issue he felt strongly about was the controversial planned high-speed railway line. He will be meeting with HS2's directors next week.

Mr Fabricant said: "I strongly believe that the route of the high-speed line is completely wrong."