by political editor Paul Francis

Folkestone and Hythe MP Michael Howard has confirmed he was approached by the fake lobbying firm that exposed three former Labour ministers.

But the MP said he had never met with the representatives of the fake firm after The Guardian reported he had exchanged e-mails with them.

In a statement, the MP, who is standing down at the election, said: "It is true that I was approached by someone purporting to represent a firm called Anderson Perry Associates.

"I did not pursue their approach and I did not attend any meeting with them."

According to The Guardian, Mr Howard had initially responded to the approach with an e-mail suggesting a breakfast meeting.

The paper said several Conservative MPs had withdrawn from meetings after party whips suspected a trap.

The former Tory leader is currently on the board of four companies.

He has been paid more than £36,000 to be the non-executive chairman of racecourse owner Northern Racing since last August.

Labour MPs Stephen Byers, Geoff Hoon, Patricia Hewitt and Margaret Moran have all been suspended from the parliamentary party following the disclosures.

Read Paul's blog on Kent politics and his thoughts on the lobbying scandal here.>>>