Rishi Sunak is likely to be the most popular Tory leadership candidate in Bradford due to being a “success story”, a Tory peer has claimed.

Liz Truss and the former chancellor are now the final two candidates in the Conservative leadership battle.

Pollster Lord Hayward made the comments during an interview with Sky News on Thursday morning.

He told Sky News: “From the conversations I’ve had with Labour peers … they see Rishi’s weaknesses as his tax position and his wealth.

Bradford Telegraph and Argus: Photos of Rishi Sunak and Liz Truss who have made it through to the final two in the Tory leadership race, with Penny Mordaunt eliminated from the contest after the final round of voting by MPs. Pictures: PA.Photos of Rishi Sunak and Liz Truss who have made it through to the final two in the Tory leadership race, with Penny Mordaunt eliminated from the contest after the final round of voting by MPs. Pictures: PA.

“But he is a success story, and they believe that will probably go down well in places like Leicester and Bradford.

“Whereas Liz Truss has not subjected herself to a full cross-examination by any of the major programmes and didn’t perform well in the debates.

“And therefore they feel that at the despatch box that she will be easier as a target and easier to take down.”