BBC News Online: UK Politics

Tory hustings dates unveiled

Both Iain Duncan Smith and Ken Clarke will appear at all eight regional rallies ahead of the final ballot.

The result of the votes cast by the 300,000 Tory members will be announced on 12 September.

David Prior, acting party chairman and chief executive, said: "These hustings will give members of the Conservative Party a chance to assess the qualities of the two contenders at first hand and make an informed choice.

"I am delighted we have been able to arrange these hustings and I hope as many members as possible will take the opportunity to attend a meeting before casting their votes."

Nationwide series

The series of debates is being held between 22 August and 7 September - just four days before the leadership ballot closes on 11 September.

They are open only to party members and not to the media or general public.

The venues are: