Tory leadership contender, Ken Clarke, has admitted that MPs may stop him getting down to the final two in the leadership ballot to go before the party's rank and file. He admitted that getting into second place could prove difficult.

His comments came as further evidence emerged of a concerted "stop Ken Clarke" campaign emerged. Michael Ancram accused Clarke of "insulting" those who had worked hard to see William Hague elected.

Michael Portillo has today revealed the names of 100 unsuccessful parliamentary candidates who have given him their backing. He has also warned his colleagues against voting tactically, saying that MPs should vote for the canddiate they want to win.

Insiders predict that the race to succeed William Hague will become increasingly personal ahead of the first ballot next week.