Maverick politician Bob Marshall-Andrews was one of 12 Labour MPs to rebel against the Government and call for an inquiry into the Iraq war.

The Medway MP joined with Conservatives this week in calling for an immediate independent public inquiry into the conflict.

The Conservatives used the fifth anniversary of the US-led invasion of Iraq and their opposition-led debate to step up pressure on the Government.

The Government survived the vote by a slim majority of 67 but accepted an amendment to hold an inquiry when operations have ceased in Iraq.

Mr Marshall-Andrews said: “It is in the interests of our democracy that an inquiry is held that will make recommendations to future governments on the lessons of the Iraq conflict.”