1945 election

Question 1

Why was there a steady leftward trend in the 1940s?

Answer 1

• From 1943 onwards, there was a consistent 10-20 % labour lead over the tories.
• The soviet unions contribution to defeat Hitler put socialism in a good light.

Question 2

What were the weaknesses of the Conservatives?

Answer 2

• In 1945, voters blamed them for the failings of the 1930s: unemployment and the failure of appeasement to prevent the war.
• Conservatives focused on winning the war and neglected welfare reform.
• Division in party: pro-reform and anti-reform (Beveridge report)
• Conservative campaign was based on Churchill’s wartime leadership.
• Spent only £3000 on publicity compared to £30000 in 1935
• Gestapo speech.
• Churchill’s age- 70 in 1945.