On 1 November members of the Carlton Club joined representatives of the Peel Society to mark the 180th anniversary of the foundation of the Club by Sir Robert Peel, who became Conservative leader two years later, and others.
The Peel Society laid on a remarkable display of Peel memorabilia. Lord Lexden, the Club historian who presided over the proceedings at which over 70 people were present, spoke about the circumstances in which the Club was established. Lord (Douglas) Hurd, the guest of honour, gave a brilliant account of key episodes in Peel’s career, and contrasted his approach to politics with that of his great rival and remorseless critic, Disraeli.