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
1975 Conservative Party (UK) leadership election As Chairman of the 1922 Committee, Edward du Cann managed the election. After his defeat in the first ballot Heath asked Shadow Chancellor of the Exchequer Robert Carr to "take over the functions of leader" until a new leader was elected. The first ballot had the following result: <section begin="First ballot: 4 February 1975"/> <section end="First ballot: 4 February 1975"/> As a result of the first ballot, Fraser was eliminated. Heath resigned, but another ballot was needed: <section begin="Second ballot: 11 February 1975"/> <section end="Second ballot: 11 February 1975"/> 49-year-old Thatcher became the first woman to be elected leader of