Conservative Party

   British Conservatism has a long history. It embraces a broad spectrum of ideas about the nature of man, society and political change. It is a rightwing creed that emphasises preserving the best of the past (including the traditions and institutions of the country) and allowing society to develop gradually, adapting only where change is proved to be necessary. At different times the party has placed more or less emphasis on conserving the past and on reform. It has always been concerned about electoral success and was – until the setbacks of the last decade or so – astonishingly successful in attaining power in general elections. It dominated government in the twentieth century.

   There has always been a strong element of pragmatism in Conservative policy, although in the Thatcher years and subsequently the party has carried more ideological baggage. Key enduring themes for Conservatives are: a cautious approach to change; distrust of the role of ‘big government’; an emphasis upon law and order; an emphasis upon ‘Britishness’ (patriotism and the defence of traditional institutions); and a preference for freedom over equality, and private over state enterprise.

   The Conservatives used to appear the natural party of government. Their leaders managed to convey the idea that the party was uniquely capable of governing, whereas their opponents were derided as divided, ineffective, extreme or even un-British. By the end of the twentieth century, they had shed much of their reputation and advantages and were no longer seen as competent, united or well-led. They were besmirched by scandals and sleaze during the Major years.

   See also: Cameron, David, Churchill, Winston, Douglas-Home, Sir Alec, Eden, Sir Anthony, Heath, Edward, Macmillan, Harold, Major, John, New Right, One Nation Conservatism, Thatcherism