The Conservative Party, average age 65, is to abolish its troublesome youth wing, The Young Conservatives.

The decision was made by a former chairman of the South Yorkshire branch of the organisation - William Hague, now party leader.

They will be replaced by a new group whose working title is Conservative Futures.

William Hague as a Young Conservative at the 1977 conference

Mr Hague has already told the Young Conservatives of his plans. The majority are said to understand the need for change although it is inevitable some will be angry.

Tories admit the group had become outdated with views no longer in tune with modern British youth.

During Mrs Thatcher's leadership the young members of the party frequently embarrassed the leadership with extreme right-wing policies and drunken balls.

Membership has dwindled from 250,000 at its peak to between 3,000 and 4,000 now. They are now outnumbered by the organisation Conservative Students which has grown to a membership of between 8,000 and 9,000.
 

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