Clarke ‘considering leadership bid’
Kenneth Clarke, former Conservative Chancellor of the Exchequer, is prepared to launch a third leadership bid, according to The Times.
Mr Clarke has reportedly told friends he would take up the job, should the position become vacant.
Michael Howard, the present shadow chancellor, the shadow deputy prime minister, David Davis, and Michael Portillo, are also tipped for the post should Iain Duncan Smith stand down or lose out in a no confidence vote. Outsiders include Michael Ancram, the deputy leader, and Tim Yeo, Tory trade affairs spokesman.
However, Kenneth Clarke has dismissed rumours he is planning a leadership challenge. He said: “It’s complete nonsense. I haven’t told anybody that I’m going to stand in the Conservative leadership election.
“I’ve been taking no part at all in all this controversy over Iain Duncan Smith and I don’t intend to do so.”
Separately, some bookmakers are betting Mr Duncan Smith will remain Tory leader for the next fortnight at best. Financial Spreads has Michael Howard as 3-1 favourite, with David Davis William Hill’s choice for leader at 9-4.
