Supporters of Conservative leader Iain Duncan Smith say he is the victim of a media conspiracy following the recent spate of bad news stories.

The Telegraph claims a recent poor-showing poll for the Times was carried out by supporters of Michael Portillo. Aides to the Tory leader describe the Times' coverage as "bizarre".

Analysis by Stephan Shakespeare of internet polling firm YouGov concludes that although the Conservatives should be doing better than they are, the Liberal Democrat gains may not be converted into votes and the Tory tax message could win over more floating voters.

The Times in its T2 section claims a leadership contest is "on the cards" and features the contenders as characters to be found on tarot cards. Theresa May is the empress, David Willetts is temperance, Ann Widdecombe is a high priestess and William Hague is Death.