Overview

• The cache was discovered in a cardboard box in a Somerset garage and is attributed to Sir Edward du Cann, who chaired the Conservative 1922 Committee during the 1975 leadership contest.
• Key documents include Thatcher’s written consent dated January 27, 1975 and a confirmation paper dated February 11, 1975 recording 146 votes to William Whitelaw’s 79, bearing her signature alongside those of the scrutineers.
• Thatcher’s nomination was proposed by Keith Joseph and seconded by Airey Neave.
• Duke’s of Dorchester will auction the archive on January 29, 2026 with a pre-sale estimate near £100,000, though observers expect bidding could exceed that figure.
• The lot also features correspondence involving Edward Heath and Harold Wilson and signed nominations from both 1975 ballots and later leadership contests, with export licences required for any overseas removal.