Former Cabinet minister Peter Mandelson denied today that he had been approached about the possibility of becoming a European Commissioner.

Recent press reports suggested that Mr Mandelson was being lined up for the posting to Brussels.

The reports were sparked by claims that one of the other senior Labour figures being tipped for the job, former Scotland Secretary Helen Liddell, was about to be named Governor-General of Australia.

But Mr Mandelson, who twice resigned from the Cabinet, said today he was happy to remain MP for Hartlepool.

Asked on BBC Radio 4's Today programme whether he had spoken to anyone about the Brussels job, Mr Mandelson responded: ''Nope. I haven't talked to anyone.

''I am very happy in British politics and very committed to representing my constituents in Hartlepool.''

Asked if he was being considered for the European Commission job, he said: ''Not that I know of.

''I know that there is the usual speculation and tittle-tattle in the newspapers that passes for journalism in today's media, but I am very happy as I am, thankyou, and I see absolutely no reason why you or anyone else should want to pack me off to Brussels.''