JOHN Prescott blew his top when quizzed by the Argus on Peter Law's decision to contest the General Election against Labour.

I asked Mr Prescott about the biggest story in local politics yesterday on his official visit to Gwent.

But when asked about the Blaenau Gwent AM's decision to stand as an independent, he told me the matter was "a Welsh situation" and he was a national politician.

He was visiting Croesyceiliog School and was on a short stroll back to his "battle bus" when he made his outburst in front of other media. Here's what was said:

Mark Choueke - How did you and your cabinet colleagues react to Peter Law's decision to quit the party after 35 years service to Blaenau Gwent as a Labour politician?

John Prescott - It didn't even register with us. The voters just have one choice, vote Labour otherwise they'll end up with a Tory government. It's unfortunate that some of our decisions upset some people.

MC - But this isn't about upsetting Peter Law, it's about upsetting the many thousands of Labour voters in Blaenau Gwent who helped you form a strong government - they feel alienated.

JP - Why are you asking me about this, I don't care, it's a Welsh situation, I'm a national politician.

MC - Are you too big to care about the Labour voters in Blaenau Gwent? Do you think there may be something in your party's methods of working that require a rethink when a politician chooses to stand against you after 35 years service to Labour?

JP (walking away) - Where do they get these amateurs from? You're an amateur mate, go get on your bus, go home.

MC - Are you too big for the regional Press now John?

JP - Bugger off - get on your bus you amateur.

MC - (Following deputy prime minister) Is my interview over John? Because if that's all you've got to say, that's what will go in the paper.

JP (turns aggressively back to reporter) - Ooohh, I'm scared, go ahead, put it in your paper.

Labour candidate for Monmouth Huw Edwards: "I could answer this question for you Mark...

MC - I hoped to hear what the deputy prime minister had to say about it.

JP (now ignoring reporter) - I've never seen a school in such a lovely setting.