Two of Medway’s Labour MPs have slammed calls for a leadership challenge against Gordon Brown as unwise and “self-indulgent”.

Jonathan Shaw and Paul Clark stood by the Prime Minister as more than a dozen MPs from his party called for a contest.

Gillingham MP Mr Clark said: “There should not be one at all. Frankly, it would be unwarranted, unnecessary and self-indulgent.

“I have been on the streets of Rainham and Gillingham and people have been talking to me about their concerns and it has not been about Gordon Brown. It has been about high prices, raising standards in schools and hospitals.

“Those MPs calling for a leadership election should concentrate on what they were elected to do, that is represent their constituents and help hard working families.”

Chatham and Aylesford’s Jonathan Shaw said: “I don’t think this is welcome and I don’t think it is wise. But I think this will peter out in a relatively short period of time.

“I am confident that the leader will give an effective speech at the party conference and silence his critics.”

Medway MP Bob Marshall-Andrews was not available for comment last night.

The row over Mr Brown’s stewardship has brewed up over the last week and has led to him sacking two leading MPs.

Junior whip Siobhain McDonagh was fired for calling a debate on his leadership. Labour vice chairman Joan Ryan was also shown the door.