Campbell backs Johnson as deputy

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Mr Campbell said the education secretary was the best candidate to work with Gordon Brown, who has already been confirmed as Mr Blair's successor.

"I'm really thinking about the best kind of combination that's going to help the Labour Party stay in power," he told BBC Radio Five Live.

"I think that if you get Gordon, with his strengths and experience, I think Alan's got a very attractive personality and has also got a real understanding of the Labour Party and Labour politics."

Mr Campbell, who is due to publish an account of his time as the Prime Minister's communications chief this summer, said he did not believe the deputy leader had to be a woman.

"I think the deputy has got to be the person who best complements Gordon Brown's skills as leader," he insisted.

Mr Johnson faces party chairwoman Hazel Blears, Northern Ireland Secretary Peter Hain, International Development Secretary Hilary Benn, Justice Minister Harriet Harman and backbencher Jon Cruddas in the forthcoming ballot.

He was nominated for the job by 73 MPs this week - more than any other contender.

Mr Benn officially launched his campaign on Friday, pledging a new style of politics with more "humility".

All the hopefuls are due to take part in hustings in Coventry on Sunday.