The Conservative Private Members (1922) Committee is an important but elusive force in British politics. Despite becoming almost a household name during the leadership crises of 2022, it remains little understood beyond the corridors of Westminster.
Established in 1923 by a group of Conservatives MPs elected the year before, the Committee offers backbenchers an opportunity to discuss their views and coordinate independently of the frontbench. Over time it has become the kingmaker of the Conservative Party, overseeing leadership elections and confidence votes such as that faced by Boris Johnson over ‘partygate’.
How did the Committee come together? How is it structured and how much power does it really wield? These are among the questions the book considers. Providing unprecedented insights into this long-standing institution, it is essential reading for anyone who cares about our political system.
- ISBN10 1526173301
- ISBN13 9781526173300
- Publish Date 28 September 2023
- Publish Status Forthcoming
- Publish Country GB
- Imprint Manchester University Press
- Format Hardcover
- Pages 208
- Language English