Tory shock as PM wishes Lib-Dems well in by-election

The Prime Minister astonished Tories today by hinting he would like to see a Liberal Democrat victory in the Oldham by-election.

In comments that risk inflaming tensions in Conservative ranks, David Cameron wished Nick Clegg's party well and promised a "friendlier" campaign than at the general election.

"Obviously, in a coalition, you always wish your partners well. I think the coalition has worked extremely well," said Mr Cameron.

"We'll be fighting for the same votes. I hope that will be done in a slightly more friendly manner than it has in the past." Mr Cameron is already suspected by some Tory MPs of plotting a non-aggression pact with Lib-Dems for the 2015 election, which he denies.

Next month's poll in Oldham East and Saddleworth is seen as a big test for Mr Clegg's leadership. Former Labour minister Phil Woolas won in May but his victory was quashed when an election court ruled he lied about his Lib-Dem rival, who lost by 103 votes.