Introduction

Abstract

The Conservative Party is often seen as a party concerned with power, one that is prepared to adapt to changing times and changing electoral demands in a pragmatic, if not ruthless, way. It is usually regarded as having done this successfully, at least in the twentieth century when the Party was in power for much of the time. There would seem to be little scope for ideology in such a political party. The need for a book devoted to the political thought of the Conservative Party would therefore seem a little odd even to some who are more versed in the politics of the Conservative Party. Indeed, many Conservative politicians have argued that they are non-ideological and see this as something that is desirable in politics. Ideology is something to be left to opponents and is something to be critical of therefore.