KENT Labour MPs believe Gordon Brown should not hold a snap election and have urged him to delay going to the polls.

The county’s eight Labour MPs represent some of the most marginal in the country and Kent is expected to be a key battleground whenever an election is called.

But despite the party maintaining a consistent poll lead and continued speculation about an Autumn poll, it seems some of those who could be vulnerable believe the Prime Minister can afford to wait.

Derek Wyatt, who has the county's slimmest majorities in his seat of Sittingbourne and Sheppey, said the poll lead could prove misleading and suggested voters may not be enthusiastic for an election.

He said: "I think it should be 2010. I cannot remember when voters were demanding an election and we shouldn't underestimate that.

"I do not know what the rush is. We are ahead in the polls and the longer we leave it, the bigger the lead will be.

"A general election in winter means you cannot campaign as well and knock on doors. I do think our poll lead could prove 'soft'."

He urged the Prime Minister to make clear his plans. "We should put [the election speculation] to bed and just forget about it. He has to say something."

Thanet South MP and former minister Dr Steve Ladyman, who would also face a strong challenge, also urged caution. "My personal preference would be to go in 2009 but I would be perfectly happy either way.

"I think the Tories will split and there will be in-fighting because they now realise that David Cameron cannot get them into power. I think Brown should hang on but I do understand the opinion polls are so strong."

Chatham and Aylesford MP Jonathan Shaw, regional minister for the south east, said: "I do not mind [when an election is called]. I am pretty relaxed about it and am sure Gordon Brown will make the right judgement about when we need to go to the country."