Senior Lib Dems have been recorded urging their party to collaborate with pro-Remain Labour candidates during the election campaign, despite assurances from Tim Farron they would not work with a "toxic" Jeremy Corbyn.

Sir Vince Cable, who is attempting to take back his Twickenham seat, was heard on a tape sent to Sky News urging his party to work with other parties who have a chance of beating the Conservatives.

The former business secretary was speaking at a public event to promote "progressive alliances" in southwest London last week.

Mr Cable said it would be "difficult to vote against" Labour candidate Rupa Huq in Ealing Central and Acton, where the Green Party are not standing but where the Lib Dems do have a candidate - Jon Ball.

Ms Huq won more strident backing from Sarah Olney, who is standing for the Lib Dems in neighbouring Richmond Park, and who was heard on the recording of the event saying: "We want Rupa to win in Ealing.


Image: Vince Cable is attempting to take back his Twickenham seat

"Being tactical isn't just about standing down or voting for the right candidate, it also can be about paper candidates, but not campaigning."

In some areas UKIP has decided not to run against the most pro-Brexit Conservative candidates.

In Kettering UKIP has agreed not to put up a candidate against the Tories' Philip Hollobone, in return he will push for a clean Brexit.

Liberal Democrat leader Mr Farron has told Sky News that the party is not prepared to do deals during the campaign with a "toxic" Mr Corbyn.

A spokesperson later added: "We are fighting for every vote to hold back the Tories and their hard Brexit agenda.

"The Liberal Democrats are the best choice for voters who want to see a progressive opposition to a Conservative Government."

Conservative Chairman Patrick McLoughlin said: "The threat of Jeremy Corbyn making it to Downing Street propped up by a coalition of chaos is very real - and these recordings show the Lib Dems are scheming to make it happen."