On this day in 1965, the leader of the Opposition, Alec Douglas-Home, surprised colleagues by resigning from his post. The former Conservative Prime Minister made the announcement at a news conference at Conservative Central Office, London.
Some Conservative MPs blamed press criticism for their leader's sudden departure after less than two years in office. Sir Alec said he made the decision after spending the weekend at one of his homes in Scotland.
Sir Alec implemented a new selection procedure after the discontent following his appointment by the retiring Prime Minister, Harold Macmillan, in 1963. When interviewed, Sir Alec would not name his preferred choice to succeed him, saying he would serve the Conservative Party in any capacity required by the new leader.
Edward Heath went on to win the leadership contest, with the full backing of Sir Alec Douglas-Home.
Sir Alec served as shadow foreign secretary for Mr Heath until the Conservatives won the 1970 general election. Sir Alec left the Commons in October 1974 and was given a life peerage taking the title of Baron Home of the Hirsel. He remained a prominent figure in the House of Lords until his death in October 1995.
Footnote
Is it just me! Or does Sir Alec Douglas-Home resemble the advertising character Alexander Meerkat? Take a look at the picture on the right. What do you think?
