Duncan Smith and Clarke 's names went forward to the full party membership in a three-month contest that was at times acrimonious . The closing date for ballots was September 11 , but due to the September 11 attacks in the United States , the announcement of the result was delayed until September 13 . Iain Duncan Smith emerged as winner with over 60 % of the vote , although without a clear majority among MPs , which many believe hampered the inexperienced leader and led to the events which saw Michael Howard replace him in 2003
September 11 attacks
September 11 attacks
2001 Conservative Party (UK) leadership election