Big business shifts its focus to Tory conference

David Cameron's increasing appeal to big business was underlined today after it emerged that the Tories have attracted more corporate sponsors than Labour to their party conference.

Just as the Conservatives are outgunning Labour in donations, the party has for the first time in 10 years pulled in more businesses and lobbyists to its gathering in Birmingham later this month.

Mr Cameron is this year proving greater draw for business than Gordon Brown, according to figures released to the Financial Times.

The Tories have sold out their Corporate Day, a £995-a-head event that offers extensive access to shadow ministers. Attendance has doubled under Mr Cameron, with delegate numbers rising from 41 in 2005 to 80 this year.

The party has sold 93 stands, each costing £4,500 to £10,050, compared with 73 last year.

Lobbyists are also reflecting the turning of the political tide against Labour in their conference activities. Bell Pottinger Public Affairs, one of the most powerful corporate lobbyists, has axed its champagne reception at Labour's

Manchester event and for the first time in years will host a reception at the rival Tory event. "Change is in the air," chairman Peter Bingle said. "Our advice to clients is to deal with Brown while preparing for Cameron."

Labour still has places available at its two-day Conference Business Forum and its exhibition space, but a party official said it was "continuing to take orders at a healthy rate," and had sold more places than last year. The Financial Times said about 50 delegates had signed up, at a cost of £500 for the Monday or £1,750 for the full two days.