George Iain Duncan Smith (born 9 April 1954) is a British politician. He is currently the Member of Parliament for the constituency of Chingford and Woodford Green. He was the leader of the Conservative Party from 12 September 2001 to 6 November 2003. He lost a vote of confidence on 29 October of that year and stepped down eight days later, with Michael Howard assuming the post. Duncan Smith is presently Chairman of the Centre for Social Justice, a policy group that is independent of the Conservative Party. Duncan Smith is often referred to by his initials "IDS".