The Times reports that both major parties are spending millions of pounds on high-tech techniques to connect with swing voters.

Tory leader Michael Howard is understood to have been advised that as few as 830,000 voters will decide the election and should be targeted relentlessly.

The Conservatives have bought an expensive American computer system that tailors messages to individuals.

Meanwhile Labour is set to spend two thirds of its £15m election budget on its "ground war" campaign of leafleting and encouraging supporters to vote, rather than on national billboard and newspaper adverts.

However, the Telegraph points out that all three major party leaders will have a "punishing schedule" for the duration of the campaign.