AYLESBURY MP David Lidington says the Conservatives failed to connect with people about the issues that concerned voters most.

He said: "It is very clear to me from the doorstep campaign and from opinion polls that there was a political misjudgement made in campaigning. There should have been a more domestic agenda.

"I don't believe the policies were wrong or unpopular on Europe or asylum, but they were given a disproportionate emphasis. People would agree about Europe, but then say 'we are worried about our children's schools or Wycombe Hospital."

The MP, re-elected on Friday morning with an increased majority and whose constituency covers the Princes Risborough area, was a member of William Hague's front bench team, being deputy to shadow Home Secretary Ann Widdecombe at the time of the general election.

When Mr Hague became leader of the opposition after the 1997 Tory wipe-out, Mr Lidington became his parliamentary private secretary, for two years and got to know Mr Hague well.

In this position he had to keep his leader in touch with the feelings of Conservative MPs and warn him when he was going wrong. Mr Hague always listened, he said.

Mr Lidington has not seen Mr Hague since he announced his resignation early on Friday. He said Mr Hague and his wife, Ffion, needed some time alone.

Mr Lidington, who was an usher at the Hagues' wedding in 1997, said he was very sad but not surprised he had decided to stand down.

He said: "I think it was the right decision. It was a characteristically brave decision which he took in the interests of the Conservative Party."

"If he had not, the media would have concentrated on this issue and arguments would have continued right up to the party conferences in the autumn

"The sad thing is I feel that there is no doubt that the public didn't warm to him, and didn't see him as a serious alternative prime minister.

"I think that was wrong. He had the qualities and the ability to do the top job - but party politics is not just about being capable.

"The warmth, humour and genuine personality that you saw when you met him face to face did not come across on radio and TV."

He said he would not be going for the Conservative leadership and would wait before throwing his weight behind anyone.