Despite the historical baggage of the term 'Tory', many Conservative Party members are indifferent to whether they are called Tories or Conservatives. Dr Sarah Wollaston, the Conservative candidate for Totnes, says she uses the terms interchangeably and does not mind if others do. Peter Bone, seeking re-election in Wellingborough, notes that 'Tory is quite handy if you're tweeting.'
However, opponents often use 'Tory' pejoratively. Former Labour minister David Blunkett admits that Labour prefers 'Tory' because it carries negative connotations, describing it as 'backward-looking, negative and reactionary.' This contrasts with 'Conservative', which he says sounds more positive. Labour attack speeches frequently employ 'Same old Tories' or 'Tory cuts'.
The term 'Tory' dates back to the Exclusion Crisis (1679–1681), originally a derogatory Irish Gaelic word for outlaw. It was used for those supporting the Catholic Duke of York's succession. 'Conservative' emerged in the 1830s under Sir Robert Peel, modernising the party. Despite the historical nuances, most party members today see little difference.
