New poll troubles Tory party
The imminent arrival of a new leader for the Tories has failed to boost flagging support for the party, according to a new poll.
Michael Howard is the only candidate to come forward for the top Tory job as Iain Duncan Smith bowed out from front line politics after losing a no confidence vote in his leadership last Wednesday.
The Mori poll commissioned on behalf of The Independent found Labour with a six-point lead over the Tories (among respondents who claim they will vote in the next general election).
Labour claimed 38 per cent of the vote, the Tories had 32 per cent (-3) and the Liberal Democrats had 25 percent.
Many voters said Mr Howard had more of what it takes to become prime minister (30 per cent) than Mr Duncan Smith (16 per cent).
And voters saw him as more trustworthy than Tony Blair at present, scoring 37 per cent compared to the Prime Minister’s 35 per cent.
Mr Duncan Smith was seen as very trustworthy by half of respondents (48 per cent).
Mori questioned 1,005 adults between October 31 and November 2.
Tory MPs have until Thursday to put forward other candidates for the leadership.
