DR Richard Taylor has confirmed that he would take on a senior role within a potential new grouping of independent MPs if he is re-elected.

The candidate for Wyre Forest was referring to the Independent Network (IN), a loose association that provides support to candidates who are not members of traditional political parties.

It is a not-for-profit association, with a simple constitution, which does not impose any political views on the individuals and parties it supports or that support the IN.

The IN only insists that all affiliates are non-racist and non-discriminatory and that endorsed candidates agree to the Bell Principles - a code of conduct for elected representatives.

Dr Taylor said: “I have talked to the IN but I am not really a leading light of their organisation. I do certainly support what they are doing.

“If we do get independent MPs elected on May 6 they would not be part of a party called IN. There cannot be a party of independents.

“But if we have four, five or six independents I would be the senior one if re-elected. I certainly would not call myself the leader but as the senior elected independent MP I would offer help and advice.”

Dr Taylor added that if he was re-elected he would help co-ordinate a new role assisting independent MPs by a designated member of House of Commons staff.

He said that more independent MPs in Parliament would be “absolutely splendid” but it was “a hard battle getting elected as an independent MP”.

Last week, former independent MP and war reporter, Martin Bell, introduced more than 40 people with “real world experience” he had endorsed to stand for Parliament with IN backing.

According to reports, if the IN succeeds in getting "about six MPs", Mr Bell foresees Dr Taylor, who did not attend the launch, as being their "natural leader".