Conservative Party ruling board 'packed with white men'

Tories today criticised their own party over the lack of women and ethnic minorities on its ultimate decision-making body.

One female MP described the party’s ruling board, responsible for matters such as fundraising, recruiting new members and choosing candidates, as “packed with middle-aged white men”.

Of its 22 members, just two are women, and not one is black or Asian.

It follows a Spectator report that female MPs have complained about being on an “arm candy” rota to walk alongside David Cameron at the party conference.

This year’s conference programme, left, shows that backbench MP Chloe Smith and National Convention vice-president Tiz Baskerville are the only female members.