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Sir James Goldsmith, the billionaire financier of the Referendum Party, yesterday incited Tory Euro-sceptics to rebel before the general election. He warned that actions not words would be required for his Referendum Party to withdraw its threat to stand against them in the next election, and which could cost some MPs their seats.

"I was asked today what criteria would be used by us as to whether we field candidates.We have to look at the facts, what people have done as opposed to what they say. We will want more than just commitments but acts," Sir James told a Westminster press gallery luncheon. His remarks will infuriate John Major, who has been told that the Euro-sceptics have privately agreed to a ceasefire until after the election.