Haringey Liberal Democrats published a letter written by the chairman of the Tottenham Conservatives encouraging people to vote for Lynne Featherstone.

The letter, written and signed by Tory chairman Justin Hinchcliffe, urged people to back Hornsey and Wood Green MP Lynne Featherstone to stop her Labour rival Catherine West winning the seat.

Mr Hinchcliffe has since been suspended by the Conservative Party chairman Grant Shapps pending a disciplinary investigation.

A Lib Dem source confirmed the leaflet had been printed and promoted on behalf of Ms Featherstone’s office.

Labour candidate for Hornsey and Wood Green Catherine West said: “This underlines the closeness of the Tory and Lib Dem relationship and makes a mockery of Nick Clegg’s attempts to distance himself from the Tories.

“The letter is very damaging to their national message and it makes you wonder, had there been a more vibrant Tory party in the borough when Lynne entered politics would she have been a Conservative?

“The choice at the next election is stark, we either go down a harsh tax cutting route with the Tories and Lib Dems or choose a brighter future with Labour.”

Ms Featherstone’s office has refused to comment.

The small print at the bottom of the letter can be seen

Tottenham Independent:

Tottenham Independent: