The Conservatives are back as an effective force in British politics, Michael Howard has said.

Addressing his party's spring forum in Harrogate, the Tory leader said his party had rising membership and was a growing force in local government.

"In short, the Conservative Party is back.  Back as the only alternative to this failing and discredited Labour government," he said.

Howard attacked the government's addiction to red tape and taxation, and pledged that if elected he would give people more choice in public services.