Hague, William Jefferson

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Hague, William Jefferson (1961– ) British politician, leader of the Conservative Party (1997–2001). He entered Parliament in 1989. In 1995, Hague joined John Major's cabinet as secretary of state for Wales. After the Conservatives' landslide defeat in the 1997 general election, he emerged as the youngest Tory leader since William Pitt (the Younger). A strong performer in the House of Commons, his anti-European single currency stance alienated some moderate party members. He resigned as Conservative leader immediately after defeat in the 2001 general election.

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