SHADOW Home Secretary Chris Grayling is to write to Justice Secretary Jack Straw to make the case for the Ministry of Justice to relocate 2,500 jobs to Liverpool.

Earlier this week, the Daily Post revealed the MoJ is looking to build a 250,000 sq ft regional office as part of its relocation and rationalisation plans, and Liverpool is under consideration.

Last night, lobby group Downtown Liverpool in Business (DLIB) said only a co-ordinated and united campaign will be enough to bring the proposed HQ to the city. Mr Grayling said: “It would be great if Liverpool could attract it. The city has every capability of offering the MoJ a really good alternative.

“I will happily add my weight to that of Liverpool to make sure the city gets a fair crack of the whip.

“I may be able to speak to Jack Straw personally, but I will certainly write to him.”

Frank McKenna, chairman of DLIB, said: “This issue will test the ability of the various agencies that represent us on such matters, and indeed the influence our MPs have at a national level.

“For too long, Merseyside has punched below its weight.”