1974 election Flashcards
(13 cards)
What major issues dominated the 1974 election?
Inflation and Heath’s stance on standing up to strikers.
How did the 1974 miners’ strike compare to the one in 1972?
It was quieter but strategically more difficult for the government.
What undermined the National Coal Board’s position in the 1974 miners’ dispute?
The Pay Board reported miners were paid less than similar industries.
What was the Confederation of British Industry’s stance before the 1974 election?
They called for the repeal of the Industrial Relations Act.
What was Enoch Powell’s position in the 1974 election?
He refused to support the Conservatives.
What was Labour’s economic pitch in the February 1974 election?
More central planning, industrial agreements, and a National Enterprise Board.
How did Harold Wilson present Labour during the 1974 election campaign?
As a strong team, featuring figures like Callaghan and Healey.
What was the result of the February 1974 election?
A hung parliament—Labour won 301 seats (short of a majority), Conservatives got 297.
What happened after the February 1974 hung parliament?
Heath attempted a coalition with the Liberals but failed; Wilson became PM of a minority government.
What did Wilson say about Heath’s appeal for a coalition?
He called it “a con-trick” and a “desperate attempt by desperate men.”
What was the outcome of the October 1974 election?
Labour won a narrow majority of 3 seats.
What were the February 1974 election results (vote share & seats)?
Labour: 301 seats, 37.2% vote
Conservative: 297 seats, 37.9% vote
Liberal: 14 seats, 19.3% vote
Turnout: 78.8%
What did the economist say about Heath’s performance?
He was criticised by The Economist for putting in a ‘soggy performance’
