Senior Tories in Michael Heseltine's local party have dismissed rumours there are serious moves afoot to de-select him.

But they admit many are upset about the the long-serving MP sharing the same platform with Tony Blair over Europe.

Michael McInness, chairman of the Conservative party in Henley, where Mr Heseltine has been an MP since 1974, said: "I have received letters of violent protest from party members.

"Equally I've had letters of support. "But I am getting a bit fed up about these rumours of Michael being de-selected. It is not an issue.'

"I spoke to Mr Heseltine and he says speculation about his position is nonsense.

"Under new rules for our party all sitting MPs have to say whether they want to be re-selected but they have until October next year.

"Michael is giving no indication one way or the other and he doesn't have to just yet."

Mr Heseltine's appearance alongside Labour Prime Minister Tony Blair at a Britain in Europe launch several weeks ago. Some Tories have taken exception to this.

However, one senior local party member, Richard Pullen, of Wharf Road, Shillingford, said: "The people who are trying to stir it up against him are in a minority.

"There's no doubt many are upset about him appearing with Tony Blair, but Europe is not really a party issue."

Story date: Wednesday 10 November

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