18 MARCH 1966, Page 6

Conservative Mr. Heath sat calmly in the centre of his

single line of dignitaries; the atmosphere was socially desirable, middle aged, Sunday school. The chair- man or whatever said 'it was an inspiration when our party chose you for a leader.' Mr. Heath looked properly modest. 'Your fine image so early in the campaign,' continued the man, 'has already become a talking point and I know that we shall have a demonstration that you are every bit as good "live" as on TV.' At 7.10 Mr. Heath got up to speak. He stood very straight, his two hands lightly resting on the pulpit and said: 'Mr. Chairman, ladies and gentlemen . . .' and thanked the chairman for his kind introduction.