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Timothy Heppell brings together a renowned group of contributors to consider the role of the Leader of the Opposition in British Politics. The book argues that the neglect of opposition studies needs to be addressed, especially given the increasing importance attached to the performance the Leader of the Opposition in the British political system.

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Introduction; T.Heppell Winston Churchill 1945-1951; K.Theakston Clement Attlee 1951-1955; V.Honeyman & T.Heppell Hugh Gaitskell 1955-1963; T.Heppell Harold Wilson 1963-1964 and 1970-1974; P.Dorey Alec Douglas-Home 1964-1975; M.Hill Edward Heath 1965-1970 and 1974-1975; M.Garnett Margaret Thatcher 1975-1979; P.Norton James Callaghan 1979-1980; S.Meredith Michael Foot 1980-1983; E.Gouge Neil Kinnock 1983-1992; S.Griffiths John Smith 1992-1994; M.Stuart Tony Blair 1994-1997; S.McAa William Hague 1997-2001; N.Fletcher Iain Duncan Smith 2001-2003; R.Hayton Michael Howard 2003-2005; M.Garnett David Cameron 2005-2010; T.Bale Conclusion; T.Heppell Bibliography

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´Opposition leaders matter, but are understudied. Studying opposition leaders allows key lessons to be learnt about the nature of British democracy and representation. However, it is all too easy for scholarly attention to fall on Prime Ministers and ignore their opponent at the dispatch-box. This edited collection provides excellent critical assessments on post-war opposition leaders from Churchill to Cameron with chapters written by authoritative experts in the field. It is a significant advancement for studies of the opposition, and a key book for students and scholars of British politics.´

- Toby S. James, Lecturer in Politics, University of Swansea

´Leaders of the Opposition is an important book. It goes some considerable way to answering the question of why Leader of the Opposition is the hardest job in British politics. The book is firmly set within the context of a changed political environment, one in which leadership dynamics matter and failure is not an option. Expertly marshalled by Dr Tim Heppell, an impressive cast of contributors view opposition leaders from Churchill to Cameron against established political leadership criteria. This edited book fulfils many functions: it is a critical analysis of an under-researched position in British politics, it is a valuable contribution to understanding contemporary political leadership and it is a handbook for those contemplating the hardest job. Above all though it is a great read for students and academics.´

- Mark Bennister, Lecturer in Politics, Canterbury Christ Church University, UK

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