Britain Transformed: Politics- Labour Government And Modernisation 1964-70 Flashcards
(21 cards)
How did Harold Wilson present the Labour Party during the 1964 election?
He presented the party as meritocratic and classless, in contrast to public perceptions of the Conservatives as elitist and outdated.
How did Wilson use the media to his advantage in the 1964 election?
He used television to present himself as the “face of modern Britain.”
What was the outcome of the 1964 General Election?
Labour won by a slender majority of only 4 seats.
Why did Wilson call another election after 1964?
The narrow majority made it difficult to bring about major policy changes, prompting Wilson to call another election to strengthen his mandate.
Who was Wilson’s Chancellor of the Exchequer?
James Callaghan.
What did Wilson’s government discover about the economy soon after taking office?
Britain’s economic problems were far worse than expected.
What had the previous Chancellor, Reginald Maudling, done in the last Conservative budget?
Delivered generous tax cuts and spending promises, leaving an £800 million budget deficit.
What major policy promises had Wilson made?
To improve pensions, build half a million homes per year, and maintain Britain’s military presence overseas.
How significant was military spending in the 1960s?
It accounted for over one-fifth of all British government spending
What was the proposed solution to the economic crisis, and why was Wilson reluctant?
Devaluation of the pound. Wilson resisted this as he didn’t want Labour to be seen as the party of devaluation.
When was the pound devalued and what were the consequences?
In 1967. It embarrassed the government and led to James Callaghan resigning as Chancellor.
What happened in the 1966 General Election
Labour won a stronger majority, gaining 46 more seats.
What were some of the major achievements of Wilson’s government (1964–70)?
-New universities and polytechnics were built
-The Open University was established
-Laws on abortion, homosexuality, and the death penalty were liberalised
-Comprehensive schools introduced (1965)
What undermined Wilson’s social and educational reforms?
Endemic economic problems throughout the decade created a widespread sense that Wilson’s promises were unfulfilled.
What led to a decline in Wilson’s popularity towards the late 1960s?
Rising unemployment, increasing strikes, and widespread union unrest.
How was Wilson’s leadership style viewed within his party?
He was unpopular for avoiding blame while making ministers scapegoats.
Who replaced Callaghan as Chancellor and was seen as a rival to Wilson?
Roy Jenkins.
What problem plagued Wilson’s Cabinet?
The quality and popularity of its members — many were seen as ineffective or unpopular.
Who was Barbara Castle and what happened to her proposed reforms?
A senior minister who pushed for union reform. Wilson forced Callaghan (a union loyalist) to vote for her proposals, but the legislation was never enacted.
What were the consequences of the failure to reform the trade unions?
Britain suffered major strikes and growing union unrest.
What happened in the 1970 General Election?
The Conservatives, under Edward Heath, won with 330 seats. Labour only won 288, losing many seats.
