Edward Heath the Liberal Party. Despite losing a second general election in October that year, he vowed to continue as leader of his party. In February 1975, Margaret Thatcher challenged and defeated him to win the leadership. Returning to the backbenches, Heath became an active critic of Thatcher's leadership. He remained a backbench MP until retiring at the 2001 election, serving as the Father of the House for his last nine years in Parliament. Outside politics, Heath was a world-class yachtsman and a talented musician. He died in 2005, aged 89. He is one of only four British prime ministers never to
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