In an attempt to ensure that more women will become MPs, the Conservatives have set out plans to reform their selection process.

Under the proposals, the power of the local association would be weakened with local dignitaries, such as a housing association chairman or a business figure, being invited on to the panel that draws up a shortlist of three candidates.

However in a speech last night, party chairman Theresa May insisted that she has no plans to impose more representative shortlists on to constituencies.

She has also floated the idea that US-style primaries could be used to select the party's general election candidates.