Conservative Party (UK)

ENG: The Conservative and Unionist Party (more commonly known as the Conservative Party) is a political party in the United Kingdom. Founded in its present form during the early 19th century, it has since been the principal centre-right party in the UK.

The Conservative Party is descended from the old Tory Party, founded in 1678, and is still often referred to as the Tory Party and its politicians, members, and supporters as "Tories." It added the byname Unionist in the early 20th century, following the Conservatives' alliance with that part of the Liberal Party, known as the Liberal Unionists, who opposed their party's support for Irish Home Rule.

The Conservative Party was in government for two-thirds of the 20th century. Since 2010, the party is the largest party in the House of Commons, albeit without a majority; the current party leader is Prime Minister David Cameron who governs in a coalition with the Liberal Democrats. As of 2009, it has more councillors in local government, British members of the European Parliament and members of the London Assembly than any other party.

Leader: David Cameron

Chairperson: Sayeeda Warsi

Founded: Historical 1678, modern 1912

Ideology: Conservatism, British unionism, Euroscepticism; Intenal factions: Liberal conservatism, Libertarianism, One nation conservatism, Thatcherism, Traditionalist conservatism

Source

June 3,2010