The Conservative Party
Key Facts
Belief in keeping things as they are, less interest in reform
Right Wing
Early Conservatives saw more liberal values (freedom, equality, brotherhood) as a threat to civilised society
Early History
Conservatism has been the dominant ideology in Britain for a number of years
Throughout the 20th Century, the Conservative party were in power, outright or through coalition, for 66 years.
This is partially to do with their ability to adapt to changing circumstances in the wider world
The party have demonstrated that they are able to appeal to working class voters, which allows them to win more elections than they would without.
Post-war to mid 1970s
One nation Conservatism was popular throughout this period
This principle means that they were able to support things like the NHS and the welfare state. because they were in the best interest of the country
Party policy was seen as pragmatic, based on what was useful
Key Policy
Cautious approach to big change
Distrust of 'big government'
Emphasis on law and order
'Britishness'
Preference for liberty over equality
Preference for private enterprise
Key figures in recent years
Margaret Thatcher- Tory leader for over a decade, first female PM
David Cameron- Lead the Conservative- Liberal Democrat coalition
Current manifesto points (2015)
Cut income tax
Current leader- Theresa May
Continue to increase spending on the NHS
Guarantee that all teenagers can take part in NCS
Extend the Help to Buy scheme so more people can buy their own home
Tackle all forms of extremism