Lord Sainsbury has given Labour a £2 million donation, the party has announced.

The cash boost from the peer, who also serves as science minister, will be used to fight the forthcoming general election.

Labour may also point to the donation as proof that it less reliant on union funding than it has been in the past.

"I am pleased to be able to make this contribution to the general election funds of the Labour Party because I believe that they are the only party that has the vision to deliver both economic prosperity and better public services for Britain," Lord Sainsbury said.

Matt Carter, general secretary of the Labour Party, said it was a "fantastic gift".

It would ensure the party "remains on track to raise the funds we need to fight and win the election, whenever that comes", he added.

"Through the generosity of David Sainsbury and other Labour supporters, Labour will be campaigning hard to take Britain forward, and to stop the Tories taking us back."