CONSERVATIVE party leadership hopefuls Kemi Badenoch and Robert Jenrick both have three children.

Yet, despite their familial parity, Dorset Tory MP Christopher Chope (Conservative, Christchurch) says only one of them is “preoccupied” with “their own children” and informed them they “can’t spend all your time with your family”.

Mr Chope made the comments about Ms Badenoch during an interview on ITV show, The Last Word.

He said: “Being leader of the opposition is a really demanding job. And, much as I like Kemi, I think she’s preoccupied with her own children, quite understandably.

“But I think Robert’s children are a bit older, and I think that it’s important that whoever leads the opposition has got an immense amount of time and energy.

“I understand from talking to colleagues that Kemi spends a lot of time with her family, which I don’t resent at all.

“But the consequence of it is that you can’t spend all your time with your family as at the same time being leader of the opposition.

“You could argue that Margaret Thatcher’s family suffered as a result of the commitment and dedication which she gave to leading our country.”

Now, the 77-year-old has been criticised by members of his own party, including Mr Jenrick and former health secretary Victoria Atkins (Conservative, Louth and Horncastle).

Ms Atkins said: “This is the 2020s, not the 1950s – all working mums and dads juggle family, career and general life.”

“That one of our final two impressive candidates also happens to be a mum reflects the modern Conservative Party and modern life. Here’s to all working mums,” she added.

And a source in Mr Jenrick’s campaign told the BBC: “He’s raising three young daughters himself.”

The Badenoch campaign team has not commented on the remarks.

Labour MP Helena Dollimore, who was appearing on the same programme, said: “Many women will be shocked by those comments. I think there should be no barrier to women standing in public life.”

Conservative party members are currently votng on who they would like to see lead the party, with a result expected on November 2.