PM tightens grip despite rebellion

David Cameron has pushed through reforms to tighten his grip on Tory backbenchers – despite a rebellion by more than 100 MPs.

By The Newsroom

Published 21st May 2010, 12:06 BST

Updated 21st May 2010, 12:06 BST

The Prime Minister won a controversial snap ballot on changing the rules of the key 1922 Committee by 168 votes to 118.

The powerful committee has traditionally served as the voice of the rank and file – and been a thorn in the side of many Conservative leaders.

Government ministers and Whips will now, however, have full membership.

Prominent figures including Douglas Carswell, Bill Cash, Christopher Chope and Peter Bone have complained it amounts to the abolition of the 1922.

But Mr Cameron has insisted it is "sensible" for the party to have "one voice" while it is part of a coalition.

Veteran Richard Ottaway, the current vice-chairman, is fighting Altrincham and Sale West MP Graham Brady, who has been critical of the leadership, for the coveted post.

If elected, many expect Mr Brady to become a focal point for growing backbench disquiet over the coalition deal Mr Cameron has struck with the Liberal Democrats.