The latest spate of Conservative in-fighting continues to dominate the papers.

According to the Telegraph, Theresa May has told Iain Duncan Smith that he must end the briefings which suggest her future in the shadow cabinet is in jeopardy.

The Times, meanwhile, says that May had threatened to resign because of Duncan Smith's failure to consult her over the personnel changes in Central Office.

The Independent leads on a report that two Tory MPs are about to defect to the Liberal Democrats.

The MPs, who are unnamed, believe that Duncan Smith is taking the Conservatives in the wrong direction and may lose them their seats at the next general election.

Mark Oaten, chairman of the Liberal Democrat parliamentary party, says: "There have been talks with two Tory MPs. Their minds are changed.

"The sticking point is because of friends, human relationships, what their wives think and the effect on their social life if they leave. They have profoundly honest objections about where the Tory party is going."

Details of this week's board meeting, which was held to discuss the changes, have also begun to emerge.

One board member is reported to have said: "For the first time in 34 years I have lost confidence in the leader."

The board was also critical of the decision to appoint Barry Legg as chief executive and chief of staff.

One of those present, reports today's Telegraph, said: "This leader is destroying our party and he has got to stop."

Legg may face fresh inquiries into his role in the Westminster Council homes for votes scandal, reports the Guardian.