CRUCIAL talks are due to take place that could decide who controls Southampton's multi-million pound budget over the coming months.

Councillors from Southampton's Labour group will discuss whether to back Independent councillor Harry Mitchell's request to be elected sheriff for the next year.

If he then sides with Labour, along with fellow Independent councillor Paul Russell, at next Wednesday's full council meeting, the party could remain in charge.

But Cllr Mitchell says it is a case of watch this space because he still has not made up his mind.

"It is for each group to decide who they will support for sheriff.

"It's not a political issue. I have not made up my mind which way to go. I'm waiting to see.

"I stood as an Independent and I shall remain an Independent."

"It is a case of watch this space."

It follows May Day's historic election when the Liberal Democrats became the largest single party in the city for the first time in more than 90 years, with 18 councillors.

Lib Dem leader Councillor Adrian Vinson will be put forward by his members to become council chief.

Labour has 16 councillors but with two more backers, the casting vote could lie with Councillor Parvin Damani, who is expected to be appointed mayor.

Cllr Bridle said councillors would decide whether to propose she remain as council leader instead of Cllr Vinson.

She added: "Harry Mitchell has let us all know he wants to become sheriff and we will be deciding whether to support that."