Chair of the Unionist Party
| Chairman of the Unionist Party | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Type | Party chair |
| Status | Chief operating officer |
| Inaugural holder | The Baroness Wilton |
| Formation | 1 May 2024 |
The Chairman of the Unionist Party is the second-highest position in the Unionist Party. The current holder of the position is August Carew-Grey, 1st Baron Calder, who assumed the position on 27 June 2024, before the Writ was dropped on the July 2024 General Election.
From the party's formation until 27 May 2024, there was no formal process for electing a Chair and its inaugural holder, Lady Wilton, held the role de facto without contest, with the agreement of the Unionist Frontbench. Following the adoption of the Party Charter during the Unionist's first conference in Brighton, August Carew-Grey, 1st Baron Calder was the first Chair to be elected. He assumed the role on 27 June 2024. The current chair is Thomas Carew, The Viscount Sidmouth, who assumed the role on the 4 October 2024.
The role is mostly ceremonial, but they are responsible for conducting elections for a party leader and serving as Acting Leader of the Party when there is not an incumbent leader.
Selection Process
Chairs of the Unionist Party
| Portrait | Chair | Constituency | Took office | Left office |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
The Baroness Wilton | Queen's Park and Maida Vale | 1 May 2024 (Founder) |
27 June 2024 |
|
The Baron Calder | County Clare | 27 June 2024 (Elected) |
4 October 2024 |
|
The Viscount Sidmouth | East Devon | 4 October 2024 (Elected) |
Incumbent |