A fresh row today erupted after just a quarter of Castle Point Tories were given the chance to vote on their next would-be MP - because they didn't pay enough membership fees.

Supporters of current MP Bob Spink, who failed to be automatically reselected for the seat, claimed "dark forces" were at work because only a quarter of the borough's Conservative Association have been given ballot papers.

The voting papers, sent out late last week, only went to 900 of the 3,200 association members and simply asked the voter "yes" or "no" whether Mr Spink should stand at the next General Election.

Only a quarter of members have been sent ballot papers because association rules state only "full" £15 a year members can vote - those who pay the £10 "foundation" membership or £5 "club" membership cannot.

Full member Bob Hecker, 70, of Scrub Lane, Hadleigh, say said: "I think it stinks and I believe there are dark forces at work in the Castle Point Conservative Association."

In a statement Mark Howard, chairman of Castle Point Conservative Association, said: "This is in accordance with the Conservative Party's rules."

Published Monday, August 4, 2003

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