CONSERVATIVE Shadow home secretary Chris Grayling has called for the Government to “show some leadership” and pardon Michael Shields.

The MP promised to argue the jailed Liverpool fan's case for release during a personal meeting with his parents, Michael Snr and Maria, at their home in Edge Hill, Liverpool, yesterday.

He visited the couple on the day it was revealed that Shields, 22, has already been home for the first time in 3½ years after being released on a three-day visit from Thorn Cross prison, in Warrington.

Mr Grayling also visited Merseyside Chief Constable Bernard Hogan-Howe to discuss policing issues.

After the meeting, he said had had a “good friendly conversation” and had been impressed with the Mr Hogan-Howe. Mr Grayling, who is also shadow minister for Merseyside, has written to justice secretary Jack Straw demanding to know why he is taking so long deciding whether to grant a Royal pardon.

He said: “Either the Government thinks he is guilty and they should say that and that’s the end of it, or they think he is innocent and should release him.”