History of the Conservative Party (UK) holding a leadership election to allow him to renew his mandate. In spite of his track record as Conservative party leader, which had included defeat at three out of four general elections, few both inside and out of the party expected him to be seriously challenged, let alone defeated. However, Margaret Thatcher stood against Heath and in a shock result outpolled him on the first ballot, leading him to withdraw from the contest. Thatcher then faced off four other candidates to become the first woman to lead a major British political party. Thatcher had much support from the monetarists, led
Edward Gardner (British politician) and Remands in Custody 1966; Chairman, Bar Council Committee on Parliamentary Privilege 1967; Recorder of the Crown Court 1972-85; Chairman, Society of Conservative Lawyers 1975-85; Steward, British Boxing Board of Control 1975-84; Knighted in 1983; Chairman, Select Committee on Home Affairs 1984-87. Edward Gardner (British politician) Sir Edward Lucas Gardner, QC (10 May 1912 – 2 August 2001) was a barrister and British Conservative Party politician. Upon his death, "The Guardian" referred to him as 'the last of the pre-war-style Conservative QC-MPs'. Gardner was born in Preston, Lancashire on 10 May 1912 and was educated at Hutton Grammar School. After