A Birmingham MP told me the sad tale of the death of a local MP some years ago. His legacy of a large Labour majority prompted interest from former MPs who had lost their seats. One rang before the funeral to offer sympathy to the dead MP's agent. " I knew him so well. A man of great courage, humour, integrity ..." The worldly wise agent waited patiently for the caller's inevitable request , "Do you think there's a chance that I could..... err....replace him ? " "I don't know" said the agent 'But I'll have a word with the undertaker for you."