I have repeatedly questioned such usage. One is either a Conservative--i.e., interested in preserving what he considers essential to his heritage--or he is not. Calling one a neo-Conservative, should imply that he has newly come to Conservatism. It makes no sense to apply it to one who is not interested in preserving his Country's traditions. Indeed, in such a sense, it can only be misleading.
The fact that some Leftists, today, may seek to hide under a "Conservative" umbrella--they got a good scare, when Reagan was elected--is beside the point. We should not adopt or accept the usage. Words are important, and you should never just accept your enemy's distorted definitions.
Beyond that, it is essential that we always look beyond any label, whatever the source, to analyze what is actually involved in any proposal, or in any issue. Magic words, shibboleths and slogans, are the techniques of demagogues. The effective Conservative should always have in mind a dynamic image of the interrelationships of ideas, facts--both of the present and past--and the potential effect of those ideas and facts on all components of the social order. Understanding the dynamics behind alternative paths and positions is essential in both promoting sound thinking and in exposing the fallacies of the Left, etc..
William Flax Return Of The Gods Web Site