Three former UK cabinet ministers have been suspended by the Labour Party over allegations they were prepared to use their position to influence government policy for cash.

UK Work and Pensions Secretary Peter Hain is to face a full parliamentary “sleaze” inquiry over his failure to declare £103,000 (€135,555) in donations to his Labour deputy leadership campaign, it was confirmed today.

Gordon Brown was today accused of “dithering” over the latest Labour funding controversy as embattled Cabinet minister Peter Hain clung to his political career.

Britain's Home Secretary David Blunkett tonight admitted he had been wrong to give a rail warrant intended for MPs’ spouses to his married lover Kimberly Quinn.