1988 Labour Party (UK) leadership election final 30% of the votes. Neil Kinnock became leader of the Labour Party in 1983 following the resignation of Michael Foot. The party had been moving towards the left, something that Kinnock sought to change. At the 1987 general election, Kinnock was placed front and centre of the Labour campaign, leading to claims that it was almost presidential. Margaret Thatcher's Conservative Party, seven points ahead in the polls, won the election despite a 1.2% swing to Labour. Rumours were spreading early in 1988 that Tony Benn was planning a leadership challenge against Kinnock. The 63-year-old Benn had lost his seat
1976 Labour Party (UK) leadership election majority, the candidate with the lowest number of votes was eliminated (in this case Healey). A final run-off ballot was held six days later. Immediately upon his election as Labour leader, Callaghan succeeded Wilson as Prime Minister. 1976 Labour Party (UK) leadership election The 1976 Labour Party leadership election occurred when Harold Wilson resigned as Leader of the Labour Party and Prime Minister. It is the only occasion the Labour Party has had a leadership election with more than one candidate whilst in government. In the first ballot, held on 25 March, six candidates vied for the leadership: As a