High Wycombe’s MP has criticised the government for encouraging "EU smear campaigns" against leading Leave figures and dividing the Conservative party.

MP Steve Baker slammed remain campaigners for reducing the campaign to “fear, uncertainty and doubt”.

He also criticised personal attacks, insults and petty tabloid smears made by the Remain campaign, fearing the behaviour would cause deep divisions in the party.

Speaking on BBC Radio 4’s Today programme Mr Baker said the Remain campaign can’t make an honest and positive case because they know it’s a losing argument.

He said: "We've been reduced to fear, uncertainty and doubt on the Remain side, and lashing out at individuals.

“What essentially I'm saying is Queensberry Rules - so a full-frontal assault with due warning is fine - but the dagger in the heart inserted from the back through whispering in dark corridors is not OK.

However Downing Street rejecting Mr Baker’s claims, saying the Remain campaign is built on the thought that we are stronger, safer and better off in the EU."

A spokesman also said the Conservative party would be able to unite after the referendum which takes place on June 23.