Michael Howard used the Spectator's parliamentary awards ceremony on Thursday to deliver a public tribute to Boris Johnson, though some observers detected a hint of sarcasm.

The Tory leader, who described the magazine as "political Viagra", went on to congratulate Johnson, the magazine's editor for "the tremendous enthusiasm with which you have approached your various front-bench duties.

"I had no idea when I appointed you as shadow minister for culture, media and sport that you would take to the task with quite such aplomb.

"You were keen to make your mark with the city of culture [Liverpool]. You wanted them to get to know you better. And you succeeded beyond my wildest dreams in achieving that objective... All I can say is Boris... keep it up!"

However, the Independent says that there was "a streak of bullying in the levity".

Charles Kennedy won politician of the year and Alan Johnson was named as "minister to watch".