Michael Howard has predicted that at least two Muslim Tories will become MPs in the next general election.

Speaking to the Conservative Muslim Foundation, the Tory leader said that while his party has no Muslims in the Commons, it has 10 Muslim candidates, compared with seven for Labour.

He said: "There are many natural ties, of friendship, common outlook and shared values that unite the Muslim community and the Conservative Party.

"I believe we share a commitment to the integrity of the family. A respect for the wisdom of tradition. An opposition to the drugs culture, social breakdown and crime... and a desire for peace across the globe."

Meanwhile the Guardian reports Labour's leadership will take control of parliamentary selections in preparation for the general election expected to take place in May.

The move is likely to ensure Blairites move into vacant seats as the party tries to maintain its key marginals won in the last election.