6. The Years of Change (1964-1979) Flashcards
What characterized Britain in the 1960s and 70s?
A period of social discontent, economic pressure, and calls for recognition by youth, nationalists, minorities, and women.
What political party won the 1964 general election, and who became Prime Minister?
The Labour Party won, with Harold Wilson as Prime Minister.
How did Harold Wilson’s image differ from previous leaders?
Wilson was seen as modern and competent, focusing on new technologies and a forward-looking agenda.
What was the main obstacle to Wilson’s reform agenda?
Economic challenges, which forced the government to prioritize the economy over social reforms.
What economic strategies did Wilson attempt to address the crisis?
He aimed to create a long-term economic plan but faced pressures that required immediate action.
What was the impact of the 1966 economic crisis on public policy?
It led to reductions in public spending and tax increases, disappointing many Labour supporters.
Why was the high value of the British pound problematic in the 1960s?
It put economic strain on Britain, leading to calls for devaluation to improve the economy.
When was the British pound devalued, and what were the consequences?
It was devalued in November 1967, damaging Britain’s international prestige.
Who succeeded James Callaghan as Chancellor of the Exchequer, and what did he do to stabilize the economy?
Roy Jenkins, who cut government spending and increased taxes on alcohol, petrol, and tobacco.
What positive economic outcome did Roy Jenkins achieve by 1969?
He achieved a balance of payments surplus through austerity measures.
Which social groups in Britain were particularly discontented in the 1960s and 70s?
Youth, nationalists in Wales, Scotland, Northern Ireland, minorities from former colonies, and women seeking recognition.
How did Wilson’s Labour government respond to the changing social landscape?
They attempted to modernize Britain’s economy and society but were constrained by financial pressures.
How did the government initially try to manage economic issues and industrial relations post-1964?
The government used a prices and income policy after voluntary wage restraint failed, leading to increased trade union militancy.
What was the “In Place of Strife” white paper, and why did it fail?
It aimed to modernize industrial relations and control trade union strikes but faced strong opposition from trade unions and Labour backbench MPs.
What were the main regional and international issues during Wilson’s administration?
- Regional issues included nationalist movements in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
- Internationally, Wilson sought EEC membership and maintained Commonwealth unity but saw Britain’s global influence wane.
How did immigration policy and race relations evolve during this period?
Immigration was restricted through the 1962 and 1968 Commonwealth Immigration Acts, while anti-discrimination measures were introduced, like the 1965 and 1968 Race Relations Acts.
What liberal social reforms did Wilson’s government implement?
Key reforms included the abolition of the death penalty (1965), decriminalization of homosexuality (1967), legalization of abortion (1967), Divorce Reform Act (1969), voting age reduced to 18 (1968), and Equal Pay Act (1970).
Why did Edward Heath’s administration fall in 1974?
Despite achieving EEC entry, Heath’s administration struggled with economic challenges, union conflicts, and the 1973 oil crisis, which led to a miner’s strike and the “three-day week.”
