1951 election

Question 1

Who was Nye Bevan?

Answer 1

Minister of health.

Question 2

What were labours weaknesses?

Answer 2

• The public associated the part with austerity (deliberately holding back living standards), rationing and high taxation.
• Britain’s involvement in the Korean war in 1950 added to the financial strain.
• Divisions over whether the party should implement charges for dental treatment, prescription and glasses. This undermined the principles of the NHS. Caused Bevans resignation.

Question 3

What was the strengths of the Conservatives?

Answer 3

• Lord Woolton reformed the party’s finances and organisation.
• Reginald Maudling gave the party new ideas and dynamism.
• Promised to build 300,000 houses a year.
• Promised to give the people ‘more red meat’ at meat was still being rationed.
• Assured they were fully committed to the welfare state.
• Churchill was still a popular figure.