GP, former Shadow Health Secretary. Has gained a higher profile through media appearances since his appointment as party co-chairman last year. Admirer of Baroness Thatcher who would offer continuity of Michael Howard’s policy agenda. Main right-wing challenger to David Davis.

ANDREW LANSLEY, 49

Former civil servant and director of the Conservative Research Department, currently Shadow Health Secretary. Possible compromise candidate between different wings. Emerged as moderniser in 2002, after hardline call in 1995 to focus on immigration because “it has more potential to hurt” Labour.

TIM YEO, 60

Famed for ability to bounce back from reversals such as the revelation that he fathered a child with a mistress in 1993. Served as Shadow Environment and Transport Secretary; a moderniser who might be acceptable to the right.

SIR MALCOLM RIFKIND, 58

Increased the Tory vote in Kensington & Chelsea after losing the Edinburgh Pentlands seat he held from 1974-97. Vast experience as Foreign, Defence, Transport and Scottish Secretary but it may be too soon for him to challenge after eight years out of Parliament.

KENNETH CLARKE, 64

Avuncular former Cabinet minister who has been Chancellor and Home Secretary but may be seen as too old. Big problem over Europe with the looming debate on the EU constitution; he supports it, contrary to party policy.

JOHN REDWOOD, 53

Idiosyncratic anti-Europe campaigner. Has been Welsh Secretary but resigned from Cabinet in 1995 to contest the top job with John Major.

DAMIAN GREEN, 49

Ex-journalist and former vice-president of the Tory Reform Group, served as Shadow Education and Transport Secretaries but was jettisoned by Michael Howard. Pro-European views could hinder him.

ALAN DUNCAN, 48

The first sitting Tory MP to declare he was gay, former oil trader who was Shadow International Development Secretary under Michael Howard. Open about his leadership ambitions.

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