LEIGH Labour MP Lawrence Cunliffe has found a new reason for people to vote Labour - to persuade Sir Andrew Lloyd-Webber to quit Britain.

The music composer of Jesus Christ Superstar, Evita and Starlight Express is reported to have told friends that if Labour wins the election, he is emigrating.

Mr Cunliffe is one of seven Labour MPs tabling a Commons motion welcoming the multi-millionaire's threat.

The MPs say: "We believe such a promise provides extra incentive to vote Labour and look forward to Sir Andrew keeping his promise."

Mr Cunliffe said: "His remarks will have offended thousands of Labour voters. He is as out of tune with the country as his compositions are with real music."

Newham MP Tony Banks accused Sir Andrew of arrogance, and said: "We won't cry for him. There are lots of people who would like to see the back of Sir Andrew because they reckon that its his best side."

But a spokesman for Sir Andrew tried to distance him from the reports claiming they were media hype.

He said that Sir Andrew was looking for another house and would take his seat in the House of Lords on Wednesday under the title Lord Lloyd-Webber of Sydmonton.

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