13.3.2 Policies of the National Government

Question 1

What type of electoral mandate did MacDonald ask for in the 1931 election?

Answer 1

MacDonald asked for a ‘doctors mandate’ - harsh but ultimately doing well

Question 2

What economic policies did the National Government employ? (5)

Answer 2

• Cuts - 10% Unemployment benefits
• Low interest rates - 2% by 1932
• Left the gold standard
• Means test
• Tarrif reform

Question 3

What was the name of the National Government’s main policy for struggling industrial areas and how did it compare to other countries?

Answer 3

The Special Area’s Act 1934

It made £2m available and was very little when compared to America or Germany

Question 4

What were the government’s main two social reforms?

Answer 4

1937 - Factory Act 7 increased to 11 million covered by increased health and safety

1938 - Holiday with pay act, 1 week of paid holiday a year

Question 5

What were the government’s main two foreign policies?

Answer 5

1936 - rearmament

Appeasement under Chamberlain