John Prescott's decision to reopen the public inquiry into Brighton and Hove Albion's stadium plans is a cynical ploy to save three Labour seats, an MP has claimed

Lewes MP Norman Baker believes the Deputy Prime Minister is plotting to stall a decision until after the next General Election - then say no to the proposed 22,000-seat community stadium near Falmer station.

Many Albion fans believe Mr Prescott will eventually approve the plans because his decision went against the advice of two planning inspectors.

But Mr Baker believes Mr Prescott was concerned the city's three Labour MPs - Ivor Caplin (Hove), David Lepper (Brighton Pavilion) and Des Turner (Brighton Kemptown) - would lose their seats if he rejected the plans before the next election.

The Liberal Democrat MP, who opposes the stadium, said: "It seems John Prescott can't say yes and he can't say no. This delay will cause further uncertainty to both the football club and to those in Falmer village.

"While it's right there should be a proper investigation, it is a pity this was not done in advance.

"I suspect the reason for the Deputy Prime Minister's decision is that he has clearly been recommended to refuse the application but doesn't want to do so ahead of the Labour Party Conference in Brighton or the General Election.

Dr Turner responded to Mr Baker's accusation: "What a suspicious mind he's got.

"I expect the result by Christmas and certainly a formal announcement before the election.

"If Prescott had simply wanted to accept the report, he could have refused it straight away.

"It's a genuinely difficult decision and Mr Prescott's department has to do it in such a way that it is immune from a judicial review."

"I'm hopeful of the right decision from the Albion's point of view."

Mr Baker declined to say where he would prefer the stadium to be built, saying it was a matter for the club and the inquiry to consider.

A spokesman for Mr Prescott's department said he had no idea when the inquiry would take place.