Iran hardliners strengthen hold

Reformers fared badly in the capital Tehran

Iran's conservatives have consolidated their victory in the country's parliamentary elections, after taking more seats in a run-off.

Conservatives now have 69% of all seats, reformists 16% and independents over 14%, the interior ministry says.

Eighty-two seats in which no candidate managed to win 25% of the vote in last month's first round were contested.

The first round had already given conservatives a big majority, but many are critical of President Ahmadinejad.

Many reformist candidates had been disqualified from standing in the election by the country's non-elected Guardian Council.

Easy ride?

If the conservatives continue to cause problems for Mahmoud Ahmadinejad in the new parliament, this will strengthen Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Khamenei, correspondents say.

In the run up to the second round, Mr Ahmadinejad has been involved in several acrimonious exchanges with other Iranian officials.

IRANIAN POLL Eighth parliamentary election since 1979 revolution 43 million eligible voters 290 seats from 30 provinces, 82 contested in second round About 40% of those who applied to stand were disqualified by the Guardian Council New challenges for president Iran in facts and figures

And there has also been criticism from both reformists and conservatives about his latest cabinet reshuffle.

Mr Ahmadinejad, who is expected to run for a second term as president next year, has come under fire for pumping excessive liquidity into the economy, which has been blamed for stoking inflation.

The BBC's Pam O'Toole in Tehran says the new parliament may be more critical of Mr Ahmadinejad in the run up to the presidential elections.