Heath as a leader Flashcards
(13 cards)
What did Edward Heath claim were the main causes of rising prices in the 1970 Conservative Party manifesto?
Labour’s damaging policies of high taxation and devaluation.
What was the Conservative critique of Labour’s economic approach in 1970?
Labour liked to spend, which meant high taxes, and inflation meant wages shouldn’t increase.
When did Edward Heath become the leader of the Conservative Party?
1965.
What significant election did Heath win, and when?
The 1970 General Election.
What made Edward Heath a significant leader for the Conservative Party?
First elected leader, had a detailed policy programme, state-educated, scholarship to Oxford, and military background (MBE).
Why was Heath considered a positive change for the Conservative Party?
Represented a fresh approach, aligned more with Wilson, seen as a product of opportunity not privilege, and believed in EEC membership and centrist policies.
What prior roles did Heath have before becoming leader?
Shadow Chancellor, Chairman of the Conservative Research Department, and Chief EEC Negotiator.
Why was Edward Heath considered difficult to work with?
Too honest, not skillful in persuasion or plotting, poor social skills, humourless, unmarried, childless.
Who challenged Heath’s leadership from 1974?
Margaret Thatcher.
What period did Heath serve as Prime Minister?
1970 to 1974.
What characterized Heath’s time as Prime Minister?
Industrial change, economic decline, rising unemployment, and a U-turn on economic policy.
What were Heath’s key economic policy goals leading up to the 1970 election?
Low government spending, expansion of private industry, opposition to nationalisation, end to prices/incomes controls, and simplifying the welfare system.
What was the significance of the 1970 Selsdon Park meeting?
The Conservative shadow cabinet drafted a free-market election manifesto highlighting inflation and Labour’s commitment to state socialism.
