Conservative Party General Knowledge Quiz
A quiz for all budding Conservative politicians to brush up on their history of parliament, people and events.
- 1.
When was the Parliament Act introduced?
- A.
1910
- B.
1911
- C.
1912
- D.
1914
- E.
1918
Correct Answer
B. 1911Explanation
The Parliament Act was introduced in 1911. This act was passed by the British Parliament and it aimed to limit the power of the House of Lords, giving more authority to the House of Commons. The act reduced the power of the House of Lords to veto legislation and allowed the House of Commons to pass laws without the approval of the Lords, except in certain circumstances. This was a significant step in the process of democratic reform in the United Kingdom.Rate this question:
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- 2.
When were 5 year Parliamentary terms introduced?
- A.
1908
- B.
1909
- C.
1910
- D.
1911
- E.
1914
Correct Answer
D. 1911Explanation
Parliamentary terms of 5 years were introduced in 1911. This means that members of parliament would serve for a period of 5 years before the next election. This change in the duration of parliamentary terms could have been influenced by various factors such as political stability, the need for longer-term planning and decision-making, or a desire to align with other countries' parliamentary systems. However, without further context, it is difficult to determine the exact reason for this change.Rate this question:
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- 3.
How many times was Stanley Baldwin Prime Minister?
- A.
1
- B.
2
- C.
3
- D.
4
Correct Answer
C. 3Explanation
Stanley Baldwin served as the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom three times. He first took office in 1923 and served until 1924. He then became Prime Minister again from 1924 to 1929, and finally from 1935 to 1937. Baldwin was a prominent figure in British politics during the interwar period and is known for his conservative policies and leadership during challenging times, including the Great Depression and the abdication crisis of King Edward VIII.Rate this question:
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- 4.
How many times was Winston Churchill Prime Minister?
- A.
1
- B.
2
- C.
3
- D.
4
- E.
5
Correct Answer
B. 2Explanation
Winston Churchill served as the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom twice. He first held the position from 1940 to 1945 during World War II, and then again from 1951 to 1955. Churchill is known for his strong leadership during the war and his influential speeches that rallied the nation. His leadership and determination played a crucial role in the eventual victory of the Allied forces.Rate this question:
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- 5.
How long (in years) was Margaret Thatcher Prime Minister?
- A.
9
- B.
10
- C.
11
- D.
12
- E.
13
Correct Answer
C. 11Explanation
Margaret Thatcher served as the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom for a total of 11 years. She held this position from 1979 to 1990, making her the longest-serving British Prime Minister of the 20th century. Thatcher's tenure was marked by her conservative policies, including privatization and deregulation, as well as her strong stance against communism. Her leadership had a significant impact on British politics and society, earning her the nickname "Iron Lady."Rate this question:
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- 6.
How long (in years) was John Major Prime Minister?
- A.
4
- B.
5
- C.
6
- D.
7
- E.
8
Correct Answer
D. 7Explanation
John Major served as the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom for a total of 7 years. He took office on November 28, 1990, following the resignation of Margaret Thatcher, and remained in power until May 2, 1997. During his tenure, Major faced significant challenges, such as the Gulf War and economic recessions, but also achieved notable accomplishments, including signing the Maastricht Treaty and negotiating the Northern Ireland peace process.Rate this question:
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- 7.
In 2009, how many MPs are there in the House of Commons?
- A.
602
- B.
645
- C.
647
- D.
603
- E.
649
Correct Answer
B. 645Explanation
In 2009, there were 645 Members of Parliament (MPs) in the House of Commons.Rate this question:
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- 8.
In August 2009, how many women MPs are there in the House of Commons?
- A.
169
- B.
196
- C.
136
- D.
126
- E.
116
Correct Answer
D. 126Explanation
In August 2009, there were 126 women MPs in the House of Commons. This indicates the number of female Members of Parliament during that specific time period.Rate this question:
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- 9.
Who was the first woman MP?
- A.
Hiacinth Baku
- B.
Jasmina Khan
- C.
Jenny Malkiowicz
- D.
Mata Hari
- E.
Constance Markievicz
Correct Answer
E. Constance MarkieviczExplanation
Countess Constance Markievicz was the first woman elected to the House of Commons, in 1918. However she did not take her seat, in protest against Britain's policy in Ireland. The first woman to be elected and take her seat was Viscountess Nancy Astor in 1919.Rate this question:
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- 10.
Who was the first woman Minister?
- A.
Margaret Bondfield
- B.
Margaret Bowffield
- C.
Margaret Blowfeld
- D.
Maggie Grimes
- E.
Margot Bond
Correct Answer
A. Margaret BondfieldExplanation
Margaret Bondfield - appointed Under Secretary in the Ministry of Labour in 1924.Rate this question:
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- 11.
Who is the Father of the House? ( the MP with the longest unbroken service (in 2009))
- A.
Allen Clyde
- B.
Alan Corruthers
- C.
Rt Hon Alun Jones MP.
- D.
Rt Hon Alan Williams MP.
- E.
Rt Hon Alain Small
Correct Answer
D. Rt Hon Alan Williams MP.Explanation
The correct answer is Rt Hon Alan Williams MP. In the context of the question, "Father of the House" refers to the Member of Parliament with the longest unbroken service. Therefore, Rt Hon Alan Williams MP is the correct answer as he has the longest unbroken service among the given options.Rate this question:
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- 12.
In August 2009, who is the oldest MP?
- A.
Rt Hon Alan Corruthers
- B.
Rt Hon Michael Howard
- C.
Rt Hon Peter Mandelson
- D.
Rt Hon Ian Duncan Smith
- E.
Rt Hon Ian Paisley
Correct Answer
E. Rt Hon Ian PaisleyExplanation
The Rt Hon Ian Paisley, MP for North Antrim, born on 6 April 1926.Rate this question:
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- 13.
Who followed William Hague as Leader of the Conservative Party?
- A.
Michael Howard
- B.
Iain Duncan Smith
- C.
John Major
Correct Answer
B. Iain Duncan SmithExplanation
William Hague served as leader of the Conservative Party between 1997 and 2001.Rate this question:
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- 14.
When was David William Donald Cameron born?
- A.
9 October 1963
- B.
9 October 1964
- C.
9 October 1965
- D.
9 October 1966
- E.
9 October 1967
Correct Answer
D. 9 October 1966Explanation
David William Donald Cameron was born on 9 October 1966.Rate this question:
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- 15.
When did David Cameron become leader of the Conservative Party?
- A.
December 2005
- B.
January 2006
- C.
March 2006
- D.
November 2005
- E.
April 2006
Correct Answer
A. December 2005Explanation
David Cameron became the leader of the Conservative Party in December 2005.Rate this question:
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- 16.
Which Oxford College did David Cameron attend?
- A.
Brasenose
- B.
Balliol
- C.
Kings
- D.
All Saints
- E.
Magdalen
Correct Answer
A. BrasenoseExplanation
David Cameron attended Brasenose College at Oxford.Rate this question:
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- 17.
True or false?The KGB tried to recruit David Cameron
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
See the David Cameron Wikipedia page.Rate this question:
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- 18.
What did David Cameron study at Oxford?
- A.
Physics, Chemistry and Biology
- B.
Philosophy, Physics and Economics
- C.
Philosophy, Economics and Chemistry
- D.
Philosophy, Politics, and Economics
Correct Answer
D. Philosophy, Politics, and EconomicsExplanation
David Cameron studied Philosophy, Politics, and Economics at Oxford. This combination of subjects is commonly known as PPE and is a popular course at the university. It provides students with a broad understanding of political, economic, and philosophical theories and concepts, preparing them for careers in various fields such as politics, government, and finance.Rate this question:
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- 19.
David Cameron was born in London, brought up in Newbury in Berkshire and also in?
- A.
St Pauls, Bristol
- B.
Stretford, Manchester
- C.
Cowley, Oxford
- D.
Solihull, Birmingham
- E.
Totley, Sheffield
Correct Answer
E. Totley, SheffieldExplanation
David Cameron was born in London and brought up in Newbury in Berkshire. The given answer, Totley, Sheffield, is incorrect and does not provide any relevant information about David Cameron's upbringing.Rate this question:
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- 20.
David Cameron is a direct descendent of which King?
- A.
William III
- B.
William IV
- C.
George III
- D.
George IV
Correct Answer
B. William IVExplanation
David Cameron is a direct descendant of King William IV (4th great-grandfather) and his mistress Dorothea Jordan (and thus 5th cousin, twice removed of Queen Elizabeth II)Rate this question:
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- 21.
Which constituency does David Cameron represent?
- A.
Whitely
- B.
Waverley
- C.
Witney
- D.
Whalley Range
- E.
Whitstable
Correct Answer
C. WitneyExplanation
David Cameron represents the constituency of Witney.Rate this question:
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- 22.
What is the name of David Cameron's wife?
- A.
Sally
- B.
Sarah
- C.
Sinetta
- D.
Sonia
- E.
Samantha
Correct Answer
E. SamanthaExplanation
Samantha is the correct answer because Samantha Cameron is the name of David Cameron's wife.Rate this question:
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- 23.
Who is the Speaker of the House of Commons? (August 2009)
- A.
John Bennow
- B.
John Curnow
- C.
John Bercow
- D.
John Malkeowicz
- E.
Jon Benbow
Correct Answer
C. John BercowExplanation
John Bercow is the correct answer because he was the Speaker of the House of Commons in August 2009. He served as the Speaker from June 2009 to November 2019, presiding over debates and maintaining order in the House of Commons.Rate this question:
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- 24.
Who in August 2009 is the House of Commons' youngest MP?
- A.
Chloe Smith
- B.
John Smith
- C.
Chloe Jones
- D.
Jone Jones
- E.
Cliff Jones
Correct Answer
A. Chloe SmithExplanation
Chloe Smith, MP for Norwich North, age 27.Rate this question:
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- 25.
In the 2005 General Election, how many MPs came from an ethnic background?
- A.
15
- B.
17
- C.
56
- D.
63
- E.
105
Correct Answer
A. 15Explanation
In the 2005 General Election, 15 MPs came from an ethnic background.Rate this question:
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- 26.
Following the general election of 2005, what was the average age of an MP?
- A.
44.9
- B.
45.9
- C.
48.3
- D.
50.6
- E.
51.8
Correct Answer
D. 50.6Explanation
The correct answer is 50.6. This suggests that the average age of an MP after the general election of 2005 was 50.6 years.Rate this question:
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- 27.
When did MPs first get an annual salary?
- A.
1908
- B.
1909
- C.
1910
- D.
1911
- E.
1914
Correct Answer
D. 1911Explanation
1911. The first annual salary was £400.Rate this question:
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- 28.
As of 1 April 2009, what is an MP's salary?
- A.
£64,766
- B.
£65,898
- C.
£63,900
- D.
£59,877
- E.
£82,787
Correct Answer
A. £64,766Explanation
The correct answer is £64,766. This is the salary of a Member of Parliament (MP) as of 1 April 2009.Rate this question:
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- 29.
Including MP's salary, how much does the Prime Minister get paid? (as of August 2009)
- A.
£176,898
- B.
£123,879
- C.
£197, 689
- D.
£210,376
- E.
£205,766
Correct Answer
C. £197, 689Explanation
The Prime Minister has been entitled to a salary of £197, 689 (including MP's salary of £64,766) from 1 April 2009. The current Prime Minister, Gordon Brown, has elected not to take the pay rise for 2009-10 either in his ministerial or parliamentary salary.Rate this question:
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- 30.
How much do Cabinet Ministers get paid? (August 2009)
- A.
£158,328
- B.
£155,220
- C.
£134,898
- D.
£144,520
- E.
£238,898
Correct Answer
D. £144,520Explanation
Cabinet ministers have been entitled to a salary of £144,520 (including MP's salary of £64,766) from 1 April 2009. Current ministers have agreed not to take the pay rise for 2009-10, either in their ministerial or parliamentary salaries.Rate this question:
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- 31.
How much do Select Committee Chairmen get paid? (August 2009)
- A.
£79,132
- B.
£69,721
- C.
£78,765
- D.
£67,988
- E.
£75,877
Correct Answer
A. £79,132Explanation
£79,132 (including MP's salary of £64,766) from 1 April 2009.Rate this question:
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- 32.
How much does the Speaker of the House of Commons get paid?
- A.
£145,778
- B.
£131,274
- C.
£160,987
- D.
£141, 647
- E.
£131, 547
Correct Answer
D. £141, 647Explanation
The Speaker is paid at exactly the rate of a cabinet minister, namely £141, 647 (including MP's salary of £63,291).Rate this question:
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- 33.
What is the financial help received from Parliament for opposition parties known as?
- A.
Mornday money
- B.
Short money
- C.
Long money
- D.
Loan money
- E.
Shout money
Correct Answer
B. Short moneyExplanation
Opposition parties get extra money to help them carry out their parliamentary business. This is known as 'Short Money'.Rate this question:
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- 34.
What year did the Falklands War start?
- A.
1986
- B.
1984
- C.
1982
- D.
1980
- E.
1981
Correct Answer
C. 1982Explanation
The Falklands War started in 1982.Rate this question:
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- 35.
Which PM would take ‘fallen women’ back to 10 Downing Street?
- A.
Gladstone
- B.
Disraeli
- C.
Pitt the Younger
- D.
Lord Salisbury
Correct Answer
A. GladstoneExplanation
Mrs Gladstone was not happy.Rate this question:
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- 36.
True or false. MPs pay congestion charge?
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
MPs, or Members of Parliament, are not exempt from paying the congestion charge. The congestion charge is a fee imposed on vehicles driving within the congestion charging zone in certain cities, such as London. It is designed to reduce traffic congestion and encourage the use of public transport. Therefore, as ordinary citizens, MPs are required to pay the congestion charge like any other vehicle owner or driver.Rate this question:
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- 37.
True or False. MPs pay tax and insurance at the same rates as private citizens?
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
True. MPs pay the same rates of taxation and National Insurance as any other employed person.Rate this question:
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- 38.
Who said, "This will not affect the pound in your pocket" ?
- A.
Michael Foot
- B.
Harold Wilson
- C.
Jim Callaghan
- D.
Tony Benn
Correct Answer
B. Harold WilsonExplanation
Harold Wilson said, "This will not affect the pound in your pocket."Rate this question:
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- 39.
What year was the Gun Powder Plot?
- A.
1600
- B.
1601
- C.
1603
- D.
1604
- E.
1605
Correct Answer
E. 1605Explanation
The Gun Powder Plot occurred in 1605. It was a failed attempt by a group of English Catholics to assassinate King James I of England and his government by blowing up the House of Lords during the State Opening of Parliament. The plot was discovered on November 5, 1605, when Guy Fawkes, one of the conspirators, was found guarding the gunpowder that was intended for the explosion. This event is still commemorated in the UK every year on November 5th with fireworks and bonfires.Rate this question:
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- 40.
What is a House of Commons prayer card?
- A.
A marker that the Speaker gives to a member in a debate
- B.
A Commons joke for members who misbehave
- C.
A marker that reserves a seat for an MP in the Commons chamber
- D.
Each day prayers are led by a different MP
Correct Answer
C. A marker that reserves a seat for an MP in the Commons chamberExplanation
There are 646 MPs and not enough seats for all members to be seated.Rate this question:
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- 41.
Which Oxford College did George Osborne attend?
- A.
Magdalen
- B.
Balliol
- C.
All Saints
- D.
Brasenose
- E.
Kings
Correct Answer
A. MagdalenExplanation
George Osborne attended Magdalen College, as stated in the answer.Rate this question:
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- 42.
Which constituency does George Osborne represent?
- A.
Hatton Cross
- B.
Tatton
- C.
Gatton
- D.
Toddington North
- E.
Paddon Green
Correct Answer
B. TattonExplanation
George Osborne represents the constituency of Tatton.Rate this question:
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- 43.
Which is the name of George Osborne's wife?
- A.
Fanula
- B.
Fanny
- C.
Frances
- D.
Frankkie
- E.
Fiona
Correct Answer
C. FrancesExplanation
He is married to The Hon. Frances Howell, now The Hon. Frances Osborne, an author (and elder daughter of former Conservative Cabinet Minister The Lord Howell). The couple have two young children, Luke and Liberty.Rate this question:
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- 44.
What is the Bullingdon club?
- A.
A Conservative club for fishermen
- B.
A night club in Kensington
- C.
A branch of the National Farmers Union
- D.
A Conservative club for boy racers
- E.
A notorious Oxford University dining club
Correct Answer
E. A notorious Oxford University dining clubExplanation
It was revealed in The Daily Mail on 7 April 2007 that whilst at Oxford, George Osborne had been a member of the Bullingdon Club, a notorious Oxford University dining club. This had become a significant political issue after it was revealed that David Cameron had been a member of the club and that it was 'infamous for "trashing" restaurants and other riotous behaviour' and 'is open only to sons of aristocratic families and the super-rich'. The Conservative Party have sought to distance themselves from the antics of the Bullingdon Club's members, particularly because it included many Conservative MPs and various photos in circulation are considered extremely damaging to the new party image.Rate this question:
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- 45.
When was George Osborne born?
- A.
23 May 1969
- B.
28 May 1970
- C.
23 May 1967
- D.
28 May 1966
- E.
23 May 1971
Correct Answer
E. 23 May 1971Explanation
The correct answer is 23 May 1971. This means that George Osborne was born on 23 May 1971.Rate this question:
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- 46.
Where was George Osborne born?
- A.
St Pancras
- B.
Euston
- C.
Paddington
- D.
Victoria
- E.
Kings Cross
Correct Answer
C. PaddingtonExplanation
George Osborne was born in Paddington.Rate this question:
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Mar 22, 2023Quiz Edited by
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Aug 02, 2009Quiz Created by
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