17.4 Labour victory in 1945 Flashcards
1
Q
Why did WW2 make a Labour victory more likely? (4)
A
- Russia’s impact in the defeat of Germany placed socialism in a good light
- The war had increased the sense of a shared experience which made state intervention seem like a good idea with support of the Beveridge report
- Labour had proven themselves in the coalition
- Increase in TU members (industrial conscription played a role)
2
Q
What was the name of the Labour manifesto, and what did it promise?
A
‘Let us face the future’
- It was radical and positive
- Promised nationalisation and a welfare state
3
Q
Why did the public doubt the Conservatives’ commitment to reform?
A
- Some still lingered onto the thought of the unemployment in the 1930’s and the Conservative’s general inaction
- Manifesto included some welfare reforms but they were limited
- Not seen to be as committed to Beveridge reforms
4
Q
Why was the Conservative party organisation weaker than Labour’s in the 1945 election?
A
- Conservative campaign could not run as usual as many of its members were abroad.
- Whilst Labour generally comprised of trade industries were available
5
Q
Give two reasons in which Churchills leadership contributed to the Conservative result (2)
A
- ‘Gestapo speech’ repelled people
- Rhetoric was too extreme for peace time
- Assumed he was going to win as a result of his was efforts
