London mayor Boris Johnson is to stand in the west London seat of Uxbridge and South Ruislip in the British general election next year. It is understood his application was put in today.

Mr Johnson announced earlier this month that he would "in all probability...try to find somewhere to stand in 2015".

The constituency is available because Conservative MP John Randall is standing down.

The British Prime Minister David Cameron was among the first to welcome news of Mr Johnson's candidacy when it emerged on August 6th.

He tweeted "Great news that Boris plans to stand at next year's general election - I've always said I want my star players on the pitch."

The local party will pick its candidate on September 12th.

Mr Johnson had consistently refused to discuss the possibility of a 2015 run - but Mr Cameron had made it clear they wanted him on the campaign team next year.

He has previously said he wanted to focus on the job of London Mayor - his tenure comes to an end in 2016 - indicating being MP at the same time would be too much.

Mr Johnson did hold the post of mayor while he was still MP for Henley for a month after he was elected in 2008.

There has also been speculation that Mr Johnson is posturing for a leadership contest should Mr Cameron fail to deliver victory at the general election next year.