Simon Danczuk: 'I’m too busy for the jungle'

Simon Danczuk MP

Rochdale MP Simon Danczuk has ended weeks of speculation about appearing on I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here after confirming he is “far too busy for the jungle”.

Rumours circulated in the media that the Rochdale MP would be among the contestants on this year’s series of the reality TV show, but he has now confirmed he has not signed up for the jungle survival programme.

Mr Danczuk said: “This is a crucial time for Rochdale with devolution for Greater Manchester on the agenda and government cuts hitting the most vulnerable in our community.

“I need to be here helping my constituents and in Westminster holding the new Labour leadership to account, not eating insects in the Australian jungle with Ant and Dec.

“Out of curiosity, I did meet with ITV some months ago to discuss going on the show, but now is not the right time.

“I’d never rule anything out, I think it's a great way to bring politics to a wider audience.”