Wanted: Conservative Leader for PM

Ken Clarke's declaration to stand for the Conservative leadership livens up the contest. He joins several strong contenders. Who will emerge as Leader and who will I support?

I have not declared for any candidate, yet. As a new MP, having not worked within the party or parliament, I do not have historical allegiances. But I do have views about policies and the qualities we should look for in a party leader.

I plan to judge the candidates in action at the Party Conference next month against these criteria and will make my mind up then.

What will I be looking for? Above all a Leader who can lead the Conservative Party to win the next General Election.

This requires a leader who can extend the appeal of the Party beyond our core supporters. More voters, in particular in urban areas, those under 35, women, professionals, middle income groups all need to find the new Leader and the policies of the Conservative Party attractive and relevant.

Charisma, the means to articulate, argue and attract, are all vital in the 24 hour media hungry political age we live in. So is character and integrity, we need a Leader who can be trusted, who has the courage to stand by their convictions.

The Leader should focus on presenting policies relevant to the problems of today and tomorrow.

We also need a Leader who has the confidence to attack the Government for its shortcomings and be recognised as a better alternative Prime Minister.