PETER MANDELSON yesterday likened his fall from office over the so-called "passports-for-favours" affair to a "ghastly road accident".

In his first live interview since his resignation as Northern Ireland Secretary, Mr Mandelson denied that he had decided to quit as Hartlepool's MP.

Although he described his second resignation, in as many years, as "distressing" he insisted he was resolved to stay and fight for Hartlepool.

He told BBC Radio Cleveland's Alan Wright: "It's like suddenly finding yourself in a nasty road accident in which your car is written off and in which you step from the wreckage and continue your life.

"You don't know how the accident happened - probably it was a combination of different factors and mistakes, including your own.

"I have had a lot of sympathy and support, and all the letters I have received from my constituents bar one have been supportive.

"The greatest satisfaction I have received in politics is the warmth and strength I have received in Hartlepool."

Last night, Mr Mandelson sought to quash reports that he wanted to make a political comeback as one of Britain's European Commissioners.

"Press speculation about me going to Europe is just that, speculation," he said.

"I'm firmly committed to standing in Hartlepool and if re-elected, as I'm confident I will be, I intend to serve a full term."

Mr Mandelson was urged yesterday to adopt a lower profile. Clive Soley, chairman of the Parliamentary Labour Party, said: "Peter is not helping his case at present."

He urged Mr Mandelson to wait for Sir Anthony Hammond's report on the Hinduja passport affair.