REBEL Peter Law went on his first walkabout yesterday after announcing he is to stand as an independent in the General Election.

The AM, and former Labour party member, is standing in protest against the all-women shortlist which saw Maggie Jones being elected as Labour's parliamentary candidate for Blaenau Gwent.

It comes just two weeks after Mr Law withdrew from the race after being diagnosed as having a brain tumour.

Yesterday, strolling through Ebbw Vale's High Street, Mr Law told the Argus: "These are very compassionate people and have helped me through the last two weeks - but I'm feeling well, positive and raring to go.

"There will be Labour spin concerning my ability to do the job after the operation. Some will damn me with faint praise while doubting my health, and others will call me turncoat, but I've no difficulty with the decision I made."

He must overturn a majority of 18,000 voters to win the seat. "Tony Blair has taken Labour so far to the right it's a disgrace. And the people of Blaenau Gwent were ignored when they told Rhodri Morgan and Peter Hain they didn't want an all-women shortlist. That's how they were repaid for putting Labour into power year on year.

"Well, what happens to this community happens to me, that's the paternal bond I have with them and that's why I'm standing - to give them a choice and send the message - we won't be walked all over."