SOUTHAMPTON'S two Labour MPs said the result in the city was a good one for Labour which had suffered big losses elsewhere in England, Scotland and Wales.

John Denham, MP for Southampton Itchen, said the party's two extra seats in the city represented a "very satisfying result".

He said: "There will now have to be discussions between the groups about who takes executive positions on the council.

"There is no doubt that will go on for several days. We need to provide stable leadership for the city - that's what the city needs. They must come up with an arrangement that will last."

The MP said he hoped Labour's performance would put it in a position to continue to fight against antisocial behaviour, improve what is on offer in the city for children and young people and deliver more affordable housing to rent and buy.

Alan Whitehead, Labour MP for Southampton Test, attributed Labour's performance to "a lot of hard work, not just at election time but all year round".

Dr Whitehead said: "It was a very, very good night for Labour in Southampton."

Labour had a "good claim" to lead the council because it enjoyed the casting vote of the Labour mayor, which could give it the edge, he said.

But the MP cautioned: "Any number of things could happen."

Both MPs attended the count on Thursday night.