Tory Francis Maude has received support from William Hague over claims he was "disloyal".

The shadow foreign secretary, who represents Horsham, is fighting claims he undermined Mr Hague in the run-up to the election.

In a video diary, Mr Hague's aide Amanda Platell said Mr Maude and other supporters of Michael Portillo had been briefing against the leader.

She alleged they criticised the decision to focus the Tories' election campaign on Europe, rather than public services.

But Mr Hague said: "I am confident I had the full support and loyalty of all members of the shadow cabinet."

Mr Maude is running Mr Portillo's campaign to be the next Conservative leader in a three-way contest.