Who do you think will be best to lead the Conservative Party? This is the fifth page of your comments.
The following comments reflect the balance of opinion we have received so far:
The point that people keep missing is that the Tories do not want to move sharply to the left in order to win votes from the likes of Brian Fileman, they want and need strong, Thatcherite Conservativism. The best leader would be Margaret Thatcher, failing that William Hague. Seeing none of those are available this time (and I do hope Maggie comes back) it has to be Liam Fox. Unfortunately there is about as little chance of this happening as of the Lib Dems forming the next government.
Neil, Skye, Scotland, UK Two words: Boris Johnson!
Tom, Newcastle
I am amazed that David Cameron has gone for it this time - only in the Commons four years and if he gets hit like William Hague did, that it for him - game over. I was once a Tory - I'm not now and have not seen anything to sway my mind this time but we do need a strong opposition and the Tories have not provided this over the last eight years. There's talk that, if Cameron wins big tomorrow, he might be leader on Friday. I hope it still goes to a members' vote because that will be good for reinvigorating politics in Britain. High risk stuff and, amazingly, mostly off the back of one Conference speech.
Richard, Plymouth
I've been a lifelong Labour supporter and am intrigued by the whole leadership thing. Cameron is the wrong man, by education and background. Blair took his party from working class to the middle ground. The perception from ground level certainly in swing voters and politikers is that he will turn the Tories into more elitist unit than it's perceived to be at the moment. This doesn't bode well. Put it this way, if David Davis won I'd consider voting for him as "he's more like me".
Archie, Berkshire
 |  Who helped John Major prepare for PMQs ten years ago? |
David Cameron is selling himself as a fresh start, but who was it standing behind Norman Lamont on Black Wednesday? Who helped John Major prepare for PMQs ten years ago? Who wrote the disastrous 2005 election manifesto for the Tories? Mr Cameron. He is too closely associated with fifteen years of Tory failure to offer anything really new beyond a fresh face and a gift for oratory.
Warren, Brighton, UK My money is definitely on David Cameron, he has clear agenda to modernise, a moderate who has concrete policies. After those eight rocky years, the Conservatives are in the verge of getting it right this time round.
Sann Karthik, Chessington, UK
We must have an optimist. I cannot support someone who thinks it is very important to build more prisons to lock up more people. I cannot support David Davis.
Timothy Stroud, Salisbury U.K.
I wish the liberals and the so called "modernisers" would jump ship to Labour or the Lib Dems. If Cameron wins, who on earth am I supposed to vote for at the next election? As someone who is politically right-wing, I will no longer have a voice in British politics. With no political party representing my views, democracy will be rendered completely pointless as far as I'm concerned.
Morgan Wolf, Winchester, UK
| The man in the pub didn't seem to have a problem voting for the old Fettes toff |
Kevin of Manchester: I think you underestimate the man in the pub. If the Etonian "toff" has the best policies, then I think the man in the pub will vote for him. If the average Briton really thinks "Well, the Tories have the best policies, but Cameron went to Eton, so I'm voting for someone else" then they'll get the government that they deserve. The man in the pub didn't seem to have a problem voting for the old Fettes toff.
Sam I feel Dr Liam Fox should win. The conservatives are too narrow minded and he would change this
Oliver Spells, Worthing
I'm glad Ken Clarke has gone again. Now as long as the Tories can get Cameron in as leader, I will be exerting my right to vote by proxy, as he is the one who will make voting worthwhile again.
Chris, Boston, USA
I am a life long conservative voter (24 years) and I have despaired ever since William Hague resigned as leader. If they don't choose David Cameron then I believe they will have ensured that they will never return to power. David Cameron is the only leader I can see who would be able to appeal to those people who switched to labour or the liberals. God forbid Liam Fox gets in, the last thing they need is another disaster who splits the party like Iain Duncan Smith.
Neil McCawley, Warwickshire
All the people saying they will never vote conservative now that Ken Clarke will not be leader should perhaps just wait and see what the policies and actions of the future Tory leader are before making up their minds. Only a narrow minded fool would make up their mind for certain four years before an election and before they have really found out about the leader.
Steve, Manchester
| Charles Kennedy must be feeling more optimistic |
With popular feeling about Labour at an all time low and Clark now out of the running for the Tory leadership, I suspect that Charles Kennedy must be feeling more optimistic than ever before.
S Lee, London Do we know where the three remaining candidates for Tory leader stand on top-up fees? Michael Howard pledged to abolish them at the last election. Will the new Tory leader commit to abolishment too?
Bernard , London
As a 17-year-old I would say Cameron as leader and Clarke as his deputy. A Conservative double act should beat Gordon Brown who is bound to act alone.
Gus Eldridge, Norwich
As a 21-yr-old Conservative I am pleased Ken Clarke didn't get through to the next round - even though I respect him immensely as a politician. He would be a good leader, but not of the Conservatives as they are at the moment. His views on Europe, right or wrong, would only fracture the party more after all of Howard's hard work to make the Conservatives vaguely efficient again. As much as I like Davis, Cameron is the only one with enough energy to really face the job of pulling the party together and facing the Blair-Brown spin team. His calm under pressure recently is very impressive.
Naomi, UK
The British public have impressed me most! With four pages of contributions (and counting) to this debate it looks like they finally care who leads the official opposition. That is bad news for the Government because it suggests that voters want an alternative and are waiting for the Tories to provide it. Cameron is probably the Party's best bet to so.
David, London
David Davis most certainly does not deserve the leadership on account of his uninspiring approach. He is more of the same; I also detected a horrible arrogant streak in his comments reacting to yesterday's vote. David Cameron is definitely my choice, he offers a real future, wider appeal and you can actually believe what he says when he's speaking. Fox is a good contender but too right-wing I think, and unlike Cameron, he hasn't grasped that the Party needs to dominate ground on new issues e.g. social responsibility, quality of life, the environment.
Andrew Chaplin, Northamptonshire, England
| David Davis has worked so hard to get the Tories back on their feet |
Mr Davis will still become leader in my opinion - Mr Cameron has great potential but is too inexperienced. David Davis has worked so hard to get the Tories back on their feet, supporting Michael Howard and indeed probably going against his wishes by standing down before their was a leadership contest, post - IDS. He deserves the leadership, he would make the best Prime Minister, he has a wide variety of experience in business, he understands the Armed Forces having served in 21 SAS Regt, and he also has real experience of social housing and being on the poverty line. Give the man his due!
Dave, Canada Forget Clarke. Plenty of Tories wouldn't have voted for him because of Europe, and his BAT links would always be a liability. And to fantasise that he would have swept to power is ridiculous. Could you really see him appealing to younger voters? Or, for that matter, any of the other candidates doing so? Get real. The Conservatives seem to think they merely need to get a popular figure to return to government, whereas the reality is that only a small, ageing minority back their policies.
David Jones, UK
I've been a Labour supporter these last three years. David Cameron recently said he wants the UK 'to become the most compassionate country in the world' Carry on like that and he'll get my vote next election. The people want dynamic forward thinkers, not right-wing fascists.
Gareth Jones, Poole, Dorset
The real loser in this leadership contest is British democracy. For it to thrive there needs to be an effective opposition. Only Ken Clarke from among the candidates could have opposed New Labour effectively.
John Wallace, London, UK
I am an 18 year old Conservative Student. I believe that Liam Fox would be the best leader. I don't like the way Cameron comes across. Also I do not want to have a leader who has taken drugs (which he clearly has by refusing to answer the question). Liam Fox has the right ideas, he has charisma and he will if leader lead the Conservatives to victory in 2009!
Ross Thomson, Aberdeenshire, Scotland
To hear second rate politicians admit that they connived to ensure that Ken Clarke did not pass the first round of a questionable selection process is sickening. These people have shown why the public were right in their judgement no to give them power. The damage they have done, by condemning the country to a further term of Blair and Brown shows a genuine arrogance and lack of real understanding of the role and value of being in opposition.
Keith Griffiths, St Andrews, Fife
The only person who communicated with the ordinary man in the pub is out. Do they really think that millions of 40-60 year old working people will vote for an old Etonian toff? I despair. I really do.
Kevin, Manchester UK
I would suggest that perhaps Cameron has the ability to win the support of some younger voters, like myself, and anyone who can ignite an interest is worthy of said vote!
Anon
The Picture of Davis with his wife (walking through the horde of photographers) looks so American. Where will it all end and why don't those photographers shoot something that needs to be shot? This whole Tory Leadership issue has become nothing more than a pantomime.
Rob, Corby, England
Actually, I'm delighted Clarke is knocked out - his votes will now be transferred to another candidate, most likely Cameron, and we can now elect a leader who a) will be young enough come the next election, and b) lead from the centre right, not the right.
Craig Aston, Oxford, UK
| I distrust Cameron and will be voting for Fox or Davis |
The fantasy that only Clarke can possibly win against Blair and Brown is being perpetuated, I see. Why should Clarke not get a place in the shadow cabinet? Give the man the shadow Europe job, where he belongs. I was very surprised to see Clarke go out, I was expecting Fox to be knocked out first. This does at least guarantee a choice for the Party members of a centrist (Cameron) and a Thatcherite (Fox or Davis), which I think is what they want. Personally I distrust Cameron and will be voting for Fox or Davis, whoever makes it through. Anyone who still believes that Labour will win the next election clearly hasn't looked at the latest economic figures. Brown has hidden it for as long as he can but the disaster he has brought us in to will become clear in the next two years.
Russell Long, Kent, UK I'm bored of one-party politics. As a floating voter, I'll vote for anyone who can rival Blair & Brown. Clarke was clearly the man to beat 'New' Labour. Now he's gone, it has, reluctantly, to be Cameron. He's good, but not that good...
Ludo, London
Well I can't say I'm surprised. I have voted Tory in all the elections I have been able to. This stops now. I think that we should now go to four party politics and Ken Clarke should take the MPs that are actually listening to the British public's view and form a party that actually has some respect for that view. To the chairman of the party, my membership card will be in the post.
Roy Ford, Nottingham
What short memory the people on this BBC site have! Kenneth Clark is the MP who wanted us in the ERM. This caused millions of job losses and thousands of houses repossessed. He would still give anything to get us into the Euro without a referendum. How anyone can rate him above Liam fox and David Cameron is totally beyond me.
Steve H, Northampton, UK
The Tories have just lost the next election. Ken Clarke can inspire a nation but the Tory MP'S are the only sector of society who can't see this. The Labour party must be celebrating tonight as none of the remaining three candidates will give them any sleepless nights. The one who would has now gone.
peter, Milton Keynes
The Tories need a fresh start after ten years in opposition. They need to win back public confidence and trust. The surest way to do this is to elect David Cameron; someone without links to the unpopular image the party has endured, just as Blair moved Labour on from the unpopular Foot, Kinnock era.
Thane Bruckland, Maidstone, England
If the Tories fail to appoint David Cameron as leader, who undoubtedly is the man who can best appeal to the lost Tory voters and the younger generation, they are bigger fools than I thought.
Jeff Crewdson, Stockport
| I was hoping Ken would clinch it, but I knew it would be unlikely given his age |
I was hoping Ken would clinch it, but I knew it would be unlikely given his age. I have lost interest in the Tory leadership contest now, as I don't have faith in any of the other candidates.
Andy Bird, Cheshire, UK I am a mildly disillusioned Labour voter but cannot imagine ever voting Tory unless it changes radically. No new leader will have much impact while Tory policies and instincts remain so, well, 'conservative'. Labour won in 1997 because they totally reinvented themselves - Tony Blair was the beneficiary, not the instigator. If the Tories were to move sharply to the left and steal some of old Labour's clothes, then we might see a Tory administration after the next election. I might even vote for them.
Brian Fileman, Otley
Party leaders do not necessarily make good Prime Ministers. It is my opinion that Ken Clarke would have made a good leader because of his presence and apparent strength. He would keep the others in line. Being a Prime Minister is someone for the public, not just politicians. For one person to be able to do both jobs takes skills beyond the norm. Maggie had it because she could push everybody around, including voters.
Peter, Banbury
I last voted Tory when the leader was Ted Heath and I don't think I should be too sorry for Ken. After all he is Thatcherite but, unlike the other candidates, I do have a certain respect for his views, particularly on Europe. My choice? I would have considered voting Tory again if Michael Portillo was leading the party but none of the remaining candidates could convince me that the Tories were returning to the 'One Nation' party. My dream ticket? Portillo joins Labour and replaces Blair at the next election. Back in the real world, until the Tories have a credible centrist, pro European leader, I'm still backing Blair; the most effective government since WW2.
Dave Whittle, Gloucester, UK
Seems obvious to me that Cameron is the man. Tories won't win the next election whoever is the leader but as long as they don't kick Cameron out he will have a fighting chance in 8 years time. Tories need to think long term.
Tony Bolding, Cheltenham
David Davis is not an election winner; Ken Clarke is the only one who can challenge Labour. The Tories made a huge mistake when they did not elect Portillo last time.
Al, Portsmouth
As a 63 year old life long Tory I have to say thank god Clarke is gone, next is Davis and welcome the new generation, Fox or Cameron.
D Humphries, Bath UK
The rise and rise of David Cameron is eerily similar to that of Tony Blair, a triumph of presentation and style over substance. Though, with record low turnouts at elections and an electorate consuming so greedily at the trough, to notice anything at all, we get the politicians we deserve.
Philip, Great Wakering, Essex Most of these comments are (openly or not) from Labour supporters pretending that the one man that could make them vote Conservative has just lost. Hmmm, what do you think is the truth? Sounds to me like they're running scared of Cameron.
James, London
Good riddance to the dinosaur Ken Clarke and his disgusting tobacco links. Fox will be next with his ridiculous comments about a 'broken society'. That leaves - oh dear...!
Robbo , England
If David Cameron wins this Tory leadership race, then I will be voting for them for the first time in the next general election. He is the only politician to have ever spoken anything that has meant something to me personally.
Ian, Sheffield, UK
Phew! Thank goodness Ken Clarke will not have another chance of becoming the Tory Leader. We do not need bully boy tactics to oust Gordon Brown in the next election. Good Conservative policies and the charisma of David Cameron will be enough.
Janet Ballard, Bognor Regis
With the exit of Ken Clarke, I think it is unlikely I will ever vote Conservative again.
Chris, London
I am sure Cameron is the best for the conservative leader. Because he is a young man with strong capability, he will lead the Tories and win the next coming election. Last election I voted Labour, but next election I will vote Conservative if he becomes their leader.
Mr N Seng Kong, Leytonstone, London
I don't think the nation really cares as to who will be the next Conservative leader. The attitude of the party has so demoralised voters.
W P Derbyshire , London
Pity that Ken Clarke has gone. Of the remaining candidates, looking from afar as I do from Thailand, David Cameron appears to be the best bet to rejuvenate the party. Telegenic, witty, and hopefully able to lead the party away from the right wing demagoguery of the recent past. The party must move toward a thoughtful and inclusive form of Toryism based on economic liberalisation and smaller government rather than xenophobic espousing on immigration and Europe.
Mark Greenwood, Bangkok Thailand Mr. Cameron has the energy and the wits to strengthen -with youth, and lead the party into future leadership.
Emmanuel Kimmutai, Thika, Kenya
I am not a Tory voter but I do think it is time to change the present government. I probably would have voted for Ken Clarke / Conservatives. Will not vote for any of the others so my choice becomes Liberal or Greens
Irene, London
Ken Clarke injects a lot of fun into politics, but he is of another political era. Do not be fooled by Home Secretary Charles Clarke's words that Tories would be 'foolish not to vote for Clarke'. Labour is running scared of David Cameron as he will take back the middle-ground in politics that this Government is fast losing.
Nick, Cranbrook, Kent
I would like to see David Cameron to be the new Conservative leader. We need a fresh faced and modern party. The election nowadays is going the way of America where it is as much about looks and personality as it is about the politics. I genuinely believe that Cameron can repair the damage that over a decade of old fashioned leaders has caused to the image of the Conservative party.
Peter David Luker, Banbury, England
What a pathetic decision! Ken Clarke would have made an excellent leader and prime minister. He has yet again been denied this opportunity. The Tory MPs are deluding themselves if they think that any of the other candidates will make any difference whatsoever to our current position.
John Price, Wirral, Merseyside
As a young Tory, I am delighted to see that there is finally someone with vision, David Cameron. I am hoping that he can assimilate much needed support from young voters for the next election. I only hope that Davis can be kept as home secretary where he is suited.
Hannah Hawkins, Warwickshire
Politics has suffered greatly in the eyes of the public due to the "gloss" put on it. Ken Clarke had no gloss and was a down the earth politician, the others are dripping with gloss. Just like Labour. Has no one caught on to the fact the public needs a credible figure who they can trust?
Gary Lister, Waltham
Ken Clarke has gone and so will my membership of the Conservative Party and my interest in British politics. New Labour lives on thanks to the insane fiasco that the Tory MPs have inflicted upon themselves.
Tom, St. Albans
I am not a member of the Conservative party but have voted blue in the not very recent past. If Ken Clarke had been leader I would not have needed much persuasion to vote that way again. The Blair government is so right wing it has taken Conservative policies. The Conservatives have thrown away the chance of a leader who could lead and have the personality to out gun the labour spin machine. If Tony Blair fancies another term it is there if he wants it.
Eddie, Nottingham, UK
One down, three to go. I have a feeling that the Conservatives will be out in the wilderness for some time to come, having eliminated the most experienced and charismatic contender. Whoops!
Chris, Wuppertal, Germany The 18th October 2005: the day the Tory life support machine was switched off. I am a bus driver, just a bus driver, and I know what will happen now - the Liberals will push you in third place, Labour will eat you for lunch and you will descend into meltdown.
Frankie Stephens, Nottingham
David Cameron will win, unfortunately, and join the ever lengthening list of Tory leaders that the public just cannot warm to.
David Thornton, Camberley, UK
Thank goodness Clarke was eliminated. A political giant he may be but he was and is totally, totally unelectable to the position of PM. He lacks charisma and is far too much of an 'old boy'. David Davis' record is somewhat of an issue to say the least and Cameron is dull, dull, dull. Fox on the other hand is in touch with the electorate, straight talking and honest. He has charisma and would make a superb conservative leader and Prime Minister
Oliver, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
David Davis is the man for the job. The party has spoken. This is who they want for their leader. He is a man with beliefs and conviction. I think it is a great shame that Cameron should win just because of a quite good conference speech. On the whole Davis far exceeds him.
Hannah Mitchell, Nottingham As a Liberal Democrat voter last time Ken Clarke was the only one who could have been of interest, in fact he would have made it a real decision for me. Now he's not there it doesn't really matter who wins. I'll just leave the Conservative Party to play themselves out of the next election too. Now the Lib Dems could do with a good old leadership battle to get some of this attention and publicity for themselves.
Eoin, London, UK
As a member of the party I am pleased with the result, if the Conservative party want to move forward we need to lose the dinosaur image that has been holding us back, by removing the 'big beast' from the contest. The Ice Age that has been the past 8 years of opposition in the cold is over, and whilst any of the three remaining contenders would make a superb leader, I think it'll go down the wire to Cameron and Davis, with Cameron's youth beating Davis' experience. No matter who wins thought the future of the Conservative party, and its place as the natural party of Government will be strengthened not weakened.
James Turner, Sheffield
Clarke is the past- where was he in the last three elections? On with the new.
Bob Mackay, Aberdeen
Thank God that Kenneth Clarke is gone. How could anyone seriously claim that he was "the only electable Tory" when he was so wet on Europe, which is something which draws opposition across party political boundaries? Good to have a straight fight between Cameron and Davis now - I just hope Cameron is clear on what he wants to do with the power, rather than being an unprincipled puppet for the latest media fad, like Blair.
Jonathan Jones, London, UK Don't worry who's leader, Gordon Brown will get the Tories re-elected next time as his expensive lies catch up with him (and us).
Keith, Chepstow, Wales (Ex-Doha, Qatar)
The Tory party are out of touch with Joe Public. We wanted Ken Clarke because he looks and acts like a statesman! The Tory party are headed for the wilderness again because I doubt I or many colleagues will vote for any other candidate.
Andrew, Redditch
A lot of people are talking about how the failure of the Clarke campaign shows the gulf between the Conservative MPs and the public. I would look at it in a slightly different way - I would say that it shows the gap between Clarke and his own party. Clarke has been rejected three times now, and his recent defeat is the most crushing yet. The Conservative Party needs to look to the future, not to a hangover from the Thatcher/Major years. And with Cameron lacking that essential gravitas and political experience the only man with a broad enough background and the political acumen to take on the job is David Davis - he may not be the best public speaker, but he has claimed the scalps of two senior Labour Ministers and would be the only person with the ability to take on both Blair and Brown.
John, London
David Cameron. He'll be facing a dour, unengaging Gordon Brown who's only claim to leadership is a stable economy - a claim that's looking increasingly fragile. After the years of lies, spin and increasingly illiberal New Labour government Cameron is the only candidate who can present a fresh, optimistic alternative for the country. Labour is a tired and has squandered its majorities - they will struggle to gain the benefit of the doubt in 2009.
James, London, UK
| Totting up the people who express a *clear* preference for one candidate or the other, guess who comes out top? |
I was up early this morning (and bored), so decided to conduct my own crude political analysis on the views expressed here (yes, I've read them all -sad I know) but totting up the people who express a *clear* preference for one candidate or the other, guess who comes out top? Ken Clarke: 131/47% (136 positive ones but I've taken off 5 for those fervently opposed to him); David Cameron: 96/33% (97 -1); Liam: 30/10.5%; David Davis: 22/7%; (Rifkind: 9; Theresa May: 4; Boris Johnson: 4; Hague: 4; Portillo: 2; Widdecombe: 2; Maggie Thatcher: 2; Mark Thatcher, Michael Howard, Mark Thatcher: 1 ea.) If the vote for the Tory leadership had been put to the public at large, Clarke would have cruised it. Do Tory MPs not want to keep their jobs come the next election?
Matt, Parbold, Lancs Personally, I'd vote for Francis Urquhart. But Kenneth Clark? The darling of the media elite and liberals, precisely those who'd never vote Conservative in a million years.
Peter C. Kohler, Washington DC USA
Now that Ken's out, there's only one sensible choice for the Tory Party: David Cameron (assuming they want to win the next election that is).
Andy, London
Now I do believe that the Tory party has a death wish, as a lifelong supporter of the party, through thick and thin, I really thought that this time they would not repeat the mistakes of the last three leadership elections where they effectively destroyed the long term future of William Hague by electing him too soon, then electing a nonentity, then Michael Howard stood no chance and now they are once again moving to a nonentity. Tory MPs you have well and truly let down the vast majority of people in our country!
Grahame Capron-Tee, Trowbridge, Wiltshire
The best thing for the Conservative party has happened and Kenneth Clarke has been eliminated from the contest. His speech only told of what he had done and nothing of what he would do, it is time to have a leader with new clear ideas and for my money David Cameron is that man.
Martin Gerrard, Chester Cheshire
Gordon Brown and the rest of the Labour Party must be rubbing their hands with glee now that Ken Clarke has been knocked out of the Leadership Race. Yet again the Tories have proved why they are not ready to govern this country as yet again they have put what the party wants ahead of what the country wants. Ken Clarke was the only one of the contenders who could have united the nation around the Conservatives. I certainly will not be voting for them at the next election and all I can see is at least another 10 years of Labour Government until the Tories get their act together.
Brenda Barclay, Aberfoyle, Scotland
Has the Tory Party got a death wish? Don't they realise that to do anything at all, they first have to be elected? Ken Clark was the only candidate the voters at large really liked and responded to. I despair, I really do!
Chris Lackner, Twickenham Middx.
All those people saying that the Tories have blown their chances of winning the next election, in ousting Clarke, might like to note that the bookmakers have shortened the odds on the Tories winning the next election - if they have Cameron as leader.
Bob, London
It's a total disaster that Ken has not been put forward. Again, yet again, the Tories have shot themselves in the foot and I cannot see one of the remaining candidates as a worthy successor to the Labour crown. I shall have to think very hard if I wish to continue voting for the Tories and I am one of the "young" voters which they are trying to reach.
R Heath, London
The Tory's have just given up their greatest asset. The only chance they have left is to vote for youth in Cameron - if they go for Davis, it will all be over.
Graham Duncan, Broxbourne, Herts
| As an ex-Conservative member, I can't return under any of the three left |
As an ex-Conservative member, I can't return under any of the three left. Fox is too right wing, Davis is boring and lacks charisma and Cameron is far too inexperienced and completely out of touch with the voter in the street. Ken Clarke might well have won my vote back. None of the others has any chance. The party has blown it again.
Tony Fisher, York UK As a long-time Conservative activist I would like to see David Cameron elected leader. I believe that he can bring back many former Conservative voters and can attract support from the under 30s - an age group where we badly need to make an impression.
Sally Roberts, London, UK
I am glad Ken is out, why have two left wing parties, both hell-bent on getting us into Europe. We should have a choice, after all isn't that what a democracy is. To have Ken in would guarantee a pro-European party would be after the next general election, who do you vote for if, like millions of others , you don't want that.
Sean Miller, Sutton
What this country needs is a few more serious political parties. Labour have become what the Conservatives once were, Lib Dems lack any charisma and their policies don't seem to add up and the Tories have had 4 main candidates all with varying views on how to run the party, which makes me think the Tories don't know what they stand for anymore, and they wonder why people aren't voting!
Darren Hodge, Bath
With Clarke gone the lack of talent in the Tory party is obvious - those who could revive the party have either left politics or have stayed away from the contest - Theresa May, Andrew Lansley CBE, Michael Portillo, Chris Patten. I think the Lib Dem front bench looks far more credible especially with the new 2005 intake.
LeeG, Bracknell
Congratulations to the Tory MPs. Once again they have superbly shown how out of touch, outdated and ideologically entrenched they are. Ken Clarke out and three suits of who cares left. They have no prospect of power and are likely to become the third party of British Politics.
Lee Braddock, Manchester, U.K
Looks like we are now stuck with New Labour for the next eight years. Will the Tories ever learn?
Wendy Simpson, Bournemouth, UK
The only contender I would ever consider voting for in an election has just been ousted. The other contenders are so utterly out of touch, it's impossible for them to appeal to voters.
Bill, Brighton
Irrespective of personal preference, Clarke was the most coherent, eloquent, intelligent, experienced, measured, capable, popular and interesting candidate - and that by a country mile. The Blue MPs should be a little red-faced this evening - and maybe for a few years to come (in opposition). I suspect the Tories will live to regret today's ill-fated first ballot.
Percy D, Oxford
David Cameron should be leader with David Davis as Home Secretary and Liam Fox as Minister for Health.
John M Johnson, UK
Kenneth Clarke was head and shoulders above his Tory colleagues, and I am absolutely devastated that he is eliminated. Tony Blair's grin is now double its size!
Norman Smith, Addlestone, Surrey
What the Conservatives need is an orator to lead the party, not another faceless tactician. Ken Clarke may not have been the media's choice, but he still is the choice of the people.
D. H. Betson, UK ex-pat
| I would prefer Cameron to win |
Now that Kenneth Clarke is out of the race, I hope Cameron and Fox make it through to the final two. They have both spelled out their vision for Britain. I would prefer Cameron to win though I would not be displeased if Fox became leader.
Neeraj, Farnborough As a Conservative supporter since hearing Anthony Eden speak in Cardiff when I was a very young man, I have stuffed envelopes, knocked doors, delivered voters to polling booths, manned polling booths and done all the mundane tasks that help candidates get elected, even stood as a candidate for local council. May I say that I am withdrawing my support. I am sick of being ignored by the people who I and many thousands like me help get elected. It seems to me that personal egos are paramount these days and the wishes of the electorate are subsumed in the greed for personal power
Bill Frampton, Dinas Powis, Wales
I was looking for the Conservative party to present a leader whom I could feel confident in voting for - and they've blown it for the third consecutive time. It's tragic and pathetic that yet again, we don't have a genuine opposition to a government so many are unhappy with.
Doug Ellison, Leicester
It's got to be Liam Fox. He's the only contender that will take the party to victory at the next election. He will make hard line voters from both Labour and Lib Dems look at the Tories again. He has charm, charisma and is totally credible. He has the right image. Any other candidate will be another stop gap.
Derek Wright, Sale, Cheshire
As someone who has traditionally voted Labour or Lib-Dem, Ken Clarke was probably the only Tory who might have induced me to vote conservative. The Tories seem determined to be led by reactionary, uninspiring politicians who lack broader electability.
M Sunderland, Hampton Hill, UK
Although I didn't support him I feel saddened that Ken Clarke has been humiliated like this. If only he weren't so keen on Europe he'd probably have become prime minister by now. I hope he will accept some role in any shadow cabinet but I doubt that it is likely. It only remains for me to wish him well in the future whatever he chooses to do.
Gareth Davies, Anglesey, North Wales
Turkeys voting for Xmas. Clarke is the only Tory capable of squaring up to Gordon Brown.
Stephen, London
| This Tory leadership contest has become a farce |
As a young voter I will remain with and continue to vote Labour. This Tory leadership contest has become a farce, reminding me why I do not support the Conservatives.
Sarah, England This is it. I struggled to vote Conservative over the last few years. Now however, I can't vote Conservative any longer. I don't like any of the candidates left. But, which party can I vote for next? None really.
Susanna Davies, Redhill surrey
I would like to be a Conservative voter but the Tory Party have once again demonstrated poor judgement in who they could have for a leader; Clarke was honest, intelligent and appealed across the whole political spectrum but his party failed to see this. Cameron is the only other real contender but I fear Labour will once again crack open the champagne as they watch the Conservative Party once again commit political suicide and vote in a grey leader like Mr Davis or an ineffectual one like Dr Fox. I don't like the Lib Dems but they will probably be the main opposition party five years from now.
Rupert, London
Ken Clarke has been eliminated... prepare yourself for another 8 years of Labour government.
Adam, Glasgow
Once again the Tories have blown their chances of winning the next election! As a one-time Conservative voter, the only person who would have attracted me back would have been Kenneth Clarke. He was the only true 'Conservative' standing in the leadership contest - the rest are all Thatcherites - the very reason why most of middle Britain have deserted the Conservatives.
Peter Walsh, Portsmouth, Hants
Goodbye, Ken. You are the greatest Prime Minister this country has never had.
TCO
David Cameron has got what it takes to lead this party to success. He may not have experience but is surrounded by people who have. We don't want more of the same experience of the last 7 years, we want someone who can think positively.
Sarah Lock, Bury St Edmunds
There was only one person who could have ever persuaded me to vote Tory again - and they just removed him from the race. The people who voted him out do not represent Wales, Scotland, N Ireland, or even Northern England. They do not represent women or ethnic minorities. Yet they have neutered the Tory Party as an opposition, and brought total glee to Charles Kennedy, Tony Blair and Gordon Brown.
Colin, Edinburgh
Ken Clarke may have been the eldest, but was the most in touch with the population. The Tories have just kissed goodbye to their best chance of toppling Blair.
Mark Harrison, Blackburn, UK
It seems likely that Cameron will win. Since all the electorate know about him is based on a 15 minute speech, he will have to achieve something pretty spectacular in opposition during the next 2/3 years to be considered as a potential PM. To me, he appears to be a Tory version of Tony Blair, I am disappointed.
Ken, Merseyside, England
Well, with Ken Clarke out of the race the Tories are almost certain to be a permanent party of opposition. Once, again the best man to lead has shown he belongs to the wrong party.
Sean Schneider, Edinburgh, UK Figures. The only one who would convince me to vote Tory just got ousted.
Michael, UK
Although I probably will never vote Tory, I think Ken Clarke was the people's favourite from the people I have spoken to. The Tory MPs have demonstrated, in Clarke's elimination, the gulf between themselves and the country. Labour MPs and supporters wanted and deserved a real contender - they'll be disappointed but also pleased that they'll be re-elected for the next two elections at least.
Adrian, Liverpool, UK
As a Labour supporter I'm thrilled that they have voted out Ken Clarke. He was the only one that appealed to non Tories. I think this is sad for politics.
Janine, London
| A great result for Labour |
So Ken Clarke went in the first round, leaving the Tories with a choice between the right or a so-called moderniser who refuses to answer straight questions on drugs which will alienate a lot of the core supporters. A great result for Labour.
Mick, Cambridge, UK I cannot believe that Ken Clarke has been thrown out. I will now not be voting Conservative again as I refuse to be amongst this big set of losers.
John Stych, United Kingdom
I am currently only 16 and have been brought with a mixed political background (parents and grandparents all vote differently) but over the last couple of years since I became interested in politics I have been edging towards becoming a Lib Dem supporter but as I have been following the recent leadership speeches, debates, etc. I can say that if David Cameron is elected I will almost certainly vote Tory at the next election when I can vote. He has bags charisma, talks common sense and could be a new lease of life for a party that could quite easily crash and burn if David Davis is to follow Michael Howard as leader.
Aaron Hill, Bridgend, Wales
None of them, not one has got what it takes to hold high office
Mr CC Hope, Ashford Kent
I find it difficult to see any of them making any substantial headway. Ken Clarke would have had my vote, but by the time of the next general election, I think he'll lose touch with the electorate. Looking at the popularity, I guess David Davis is the most 'down-to-earth', but Cameron has the edge. He can talk the talk, but he also simply looks the most able to walk the walk...
Alex, Amsterdam, Netherlands
No doubt the MPs will look after themselves instead of going for the choice of the public, being Clarke, Fox or Cameron, they will go for Davis. Labour must be laughing.
Steven, Glasgow, Scotland
If Ken Clark is vote the leader I will vote Tory next time. I believe he is the only that has the ability to push Brown aside!
Ayad, London - UK
| Why can't the Tories put at least one woman forward? |
Which of the candidates that wins is irrelevant. They are all middle-aged men, how boring! Why can't the Tories put at least one woman forward as a possible new leader?
Ida, Trondheim, Norway I believe that David Cameron is the only candidate with the vision, charisma and personality to lead the Conservative Party to victory in the next General Election. He has my vote.
Jean Cooke, Reigate, Surrey, UK
I live in Ken Clarke's constituency and I know that may make me sound bias, but really, it just gives me a more personal insight into a man who is dedicated to this country's welfare. I watched him make his speech after he had secured his seat after the last election, and he was the only candidate to graciously thank his opponents. He was courteous, polite, and strong. His speech was fantastic, and every one in the room listened intently to him. He had a great run as chancellor, and I feel he is the only man who can lead to Tories to victory. He even said himself that he is the most experienced candidate standing - surely that should count for something?
Natalie, Notts
Whilst the Tories were short sighted in not voting for Ken Clarke last time, things have moved on. Unfortunately Fox, Davis and Clarke are slightly tarnished. At least Cameron can inject some zest and freshness back in to the party. I would be likely to join a Tory party led by Cameron.
Nathan Samuels, Northampton UK
| Cameron maybe new with fresh ideas and dynamic, but he isn't well known |
The only candidate that poses a real threat to Gordon Brown and could lead the Tories back to power is Ken Clarke. Ken has vast experience on the front bench and is the only candidate who is well known by the British public. David Cameron maybe new with fresh ideas and dynamic, but he isn't well known. David Davies persona is similar to William Hague and Ian Duncan Smith's.
Paul Jago, West Belfast Ken Clarke, Ken Clarke, and again Ken Clarke. He's the only real Euro-supporter. Anybody who believes they are against the European Union project (as a principle) is simply sticking their head in a very big sand pit.
Tom Edmondston-Low, London, UK
It should be David Cameron without doubt. He is young, dynamic, and sincere (despite what others may think!) and would be a break from the older group we seem to have been subjected to. I find it absolutely astonishing that the upper echelons of the Conservative Party can still be bickering over details when all they should want to do is win the Election! Wake up to what the people want will you!
Alexandra Langridge, Witney, England
I am a Labour Party member, but I do take genuine interest in what is going on with the Conservative Leadership contest, it is my passionate belief that the Tories must (please!) get a strong person at the helm to provide some decent opposition for a change. My own personal politics don't come into this. As (first and foremost) a believer in and activist for Democracy, I want there to be effective opposition to the incumbent government (regardless of where their policies lie in relation to my own beliefs). I think the only option the Conservatives have in this regard is David Cameron.
John Macdonald, Reading, UK
| A combination of "The Big Beast" and the young pretender would potentially have Labour in big trouble |
I'm a Labour voter and the thing I'm most relieved about is that there's no equivalent in this country of the US-style "dream ticket". I fear that a combination of "The Big Beast" and the young pretender would potentially have Labour in big trouble over the next 3 years.
Steve I believe that there is only one man to drag the Tories out of their current state & to truly compete with Labour and that is David Cameron. He speaks common sense and has the charisma to change those voters minds who have been unsure for years.
Steve, Poole, Dorset
No-one will elect a party stuck in the past, despite a change of leader. David Cameron will be the only one alive when the Conservative party grow up and get their act together.
Imogen, Aylesbury, UK
The Tory party must realise that this is its last opportunity to elect Ken Clarke as its leader. He is the only person that actually frightens New Labour and he has the experience and the charisma to re-invigorate the party. MPs need to put him up fore the wider membership to have the final say - failure to do so would be a travesty of justice.
Jim Little, Newcastle upon Tyne
I have been a life long supporter of Labour, but I now feel that Labour needs real competition as some of their policies, lies and the war with Iraq are scandalous. I think this competition will come from David Cameron. If he wins the Tories will get my vote!
John, Scotland
| Ken Clarke is the only personality big enough to keep the news papers enthusiastic |
Ken Clarke is the only viable candidate to win against Labour. Perhaps not for the reasons we would like or the Tory MP's for that matter, we're in a media and tabloid driven world where what the parties really are fighting over is the middle ground of swingers not the die-hards. A large percentage of the vote is decided by headlines, exposure and pure entertainment, Ken Clarke is the only personality big enough to keep the news papers enthusiastic about him and to humiliate the opposition in open debate. Hague, IDS, and Howard may have been very good paper pushers and had great ideas but they just didn't stick in our minds as leaders we would be proud of.
David Glover, Manchester The man least popular in most polls of ordinary voters (David Davis) is favoured by MPs as their prime candidate whilst Ken C is tipped to possibly fall at the first hurdle, in spite of leading many voter polls. Doesn't this just highlight how out of touch MPs really are and why my beloved Tory Party will spend many more years out in the cold.
Marc Kingston, Dundee
It's a shame Portillo or Hague are not standing. Both have the ability to relate genuinely to the average person. Cameroon is the best choice of the four; his speech to launch his leadership bid was good enough to inspire people to think of him as a leader who didn't even know him before. The Conservatives, although, need a leader that looks good out of a suit!
Mark, St Albans
The only candidate with any public image is Ken Clarke. I have voted Lib Dem all my life, however if he were the Conservative leader I would seriously listen to what the Conservatives have got to say. He was a good and stabilising chancellor. If however, as I suspect, they elect Davis, or Cameron, they are doomed to oblivion, unless Gordon Brown mucks it up.
Gary Gunn, Edinburgh
Bring on Boris Johnson. His experience as vice chair of the All Party Depression Group will prove invaluable.
Roger Davidson, Worcester, Worcs
If Ken Clarke (who is head and shoulders above all other candidates) is not elected leader forthwith, let's turn our attention to Charles Kennedy, the next Leader of HM Opposition.
Peter , London, England
Cameron is a Blair clone - do not need more of the same emptiness. Clarke is yesterday's man - do not need old Government - could not vote for him. Fox is a makeweight. That leaves Davis. He seems to be the only one who could pull the party together - and at least has some substance. He doesn't have to have a smart mouth - just the wit to test Blair.
Peggy Reeves, Christchurch Nick, Cranbrook, Kent: Cameron has handled it dreadfully! My flatmates and I just couldn't believe how evasive he was on Question Time, and how his face went bright red! Didn't any of you see him look down at his writing pad any time there was a difficult question and pretend to write, when in fact he was doodling the shape of a box, again and again and again? The man is a liability to the Tories, and will be a liability to the country if he ever gets elected. What planet are the Conservatives on?
John W., Brighton, UK
If the Tory party wants to win a general election it needs to stop worrying about its "core vote" on the right wing and start thinking about what it will take to make instinctively centrist New Labour voters want to switch their allegiance. David Davis has shown no sign that he understands this any better than the last three Tory leaders did, and if elected I suspect he will share their fate.
Darien, London
David Davis stands out from the usual type of Conservative. He has had a lot of parliamentary experience.
Zena Burrows, Filey, England
| Liam Fox is too right wing |
David Cameron with Clarke as deputy. At least that way there'd be some charisma and experience. David Davis is boring. Liam Fox is too right wing so would produce an unelectable Tory party.
Jack, Essex Ken Clark is the only candidate with sufficient 'likeability' to win an election - even some stark socialists say they would vote for him. The question for the Conservatives is do we want to win the next election or ensure we stay out of Europe - I know which I think is more important!
Hayden, Welwyn Garden, England
As a non-Tory voter, I hope that David Davis or Liam Fox lead them to extinction. I hope that Ken "Hufflepuff" Clarke's libertine ways don't eliminate him before the next election...
Jon, Oxted, Surrey
I believe that there is only one man to drag the Tories out of their current state & to truly compete with Labour and that is David Cameron. He speaks common sense and has the charisma to change those voters minds who have been unsure for years.
Steve, Poole, Dorset
Can anyone seriously see the Tories winning the next election without Cameron as leader? I can't. Ken Clarke (bless him - should've won last time) is too old. Dr Fox - no gravitas and a bit too 'demon eyes' for most middle voters. David Davis will do little better than Howard. Cameron is clearly Prime Ministerial material and will give the Tories a look and feel of freshness that will be a stark contrast to a tiring Labour administration. Heavens to Betsy, I may even vote for them with Cameron at the head!
Philip Vaughan, Aylesbury, Bucks
In today's world the charisma of a leader cannot be underestimated; unfortunately neither Mr Davis nor Dr Fox have sufficient quantity to actually win a general election!
David Owen McAuley, Belfast, N. Ireland
| The real losers for the next 20 years will be the electorate |
Like New Labour did, the Tories are now learning that having values is a positive hindrance to getting elected. I am in despair at our political elite - both Government & Opposition, & feel that the real losers for the next 20 years will be the electorate. If this is the best we have got to lead us, then we are in real trouble - this squidgy, non committal centre ground is useless at achieving anything on the world stage, either political or in economics.
Ian, Whitwick, England David Cameron is - by far - the best choice for the leadership and I think the parliamentary party realise this, despite some doubts about his experience. He handled the 'drugs' issue extremely well and proved that he is no push over. The Tories cannot hark back to the Thatcher Years: like it or not, we now live in a different country with a different kind of politics. Cameron is not a 'Tory Tony Blair', far from it. He has an agenda and it's a good one for Britain. Labour beware.
Nick, Cranbrook, Kent
If David Davis wins the whole thing, it will consign the Tory Party to history
James, Wiltshire
I wouldn't want a prime minister in this day and age not to have taken drugs when young. Maybe we can have a serious debate on whether we continue to support organised crime or legalise drugs
Ian, London
Although David Cameron has youth and energy I still question how a man with just four years political experience can lead a party which has only just rediscovered some sort of discipline. Also what are his policies? No one really knows and I for one would be strongly against any type of New Labour model which I fear he is attempting to copy. For me David Davis is the one candidate who will retain the core right wing Tory values, e.g. lower taxes and tough on crime, whilst also looking to expand on these policies with an attempt to push the party towards the centre. I'm all for adopting this ground provided the party doesn't lose its identity. Whatever happens I merely ask for two things; 1. Liam Fox doesn't win (that's just asking for further defeat), 2. The party rallies behind whoever is elected and sings from the same hymn sheet.
Gareth Davies, Anglesey, North Wales
| David Cameron... someone who could appeal to Liberal and Labour voters |
For the first time in many years, I see David Cameron as a leader the country could get behind. He looks a leader, assertive, wise, charismatic, and someone who could appeal to Liberal and Labour voters. That's surely the most important thing right now for the Conservative party.
Geoff Seago, Burgess Hill It really doesn't matter to me, whoever wins will get my vote. I'm sick and tired of the extortionate taxes introduced by Gordon Brown and the blatant lies of the Labour party as a whole.
Keith, UK
The Conservatives must get up to date with what's going on firstly in the UK, secondly in Europe, and then look at our relations with other countries of the world. They've spent so long waffling on about the bad things of the European Union they fail to see that the US and China are rapidly beginning to dominate world economics and politics. Only through partnership with our European neighbours will Britain's voice be heard, and hopefully heeded, instead of us becoming more and more marginalised as an insignificant satellite dominated by US policy.
Dan, Brussels (UK ex pat)
A vote for Davis, Cameron or Fox is in reality a vote for the Blair project. Whilst I do not relish the idea of a Conservative government, particularly with N. Ireland in mind, I feel that the rejection of Clarke will be an acceptance of defeat and a prolonged period in opposition for the Tories. Conservative MPs must take this opportunity to present New Labour with a much needed challenge. Excepting Clarke, all the other candidates present too many opportunities for New Labour. Clarke can hold his ground on may issues and return power to the Tories. (Shudder...)
Brian, Newry, N. Ireland
Isn't it obvious to any impartial observer that irrespective of who leads them, the Conservatives continue to hanker for a past that can no longer be?
Joe Miller, UK
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