Plans to restrict the influence of Conservative Party membership over leadership decisions have received the backing of the most senior member of the voluntary party.

In an interview with the Telegraph, chairman of the Conservative Party National Convention Raymond Monbiot agreed that a "far better balance" was needed between the respective roles played by MPs and members.

Meanwhile the Guardian reports that William Hague has turned down the opportunity to become shadow chancellor in Michael Howard's new team.

Hague would like to return to the Conservative front bench but has indicated that business commitments would make it difficult for him to take on such a high-profile job.

The Independent adds that the "Blair and Brown of the Tory Party", David Cameron and George Osborne, have also ruled themselves out of the leadership race.