90s - Realignment of Labour Party Flashcards
Who masterminded Kinnock’s reorganisation of the Party 1987-92?
Peter Mandelon, the spin doctor. He was Kinnock’s director of communications.
Who was John Smith and what did he lend Labour?
Shadow Chancellor 1987-92, who gave Labour a more reassuring image of modernisation and competence.
What was the result of Labours 1987 policy review?
By 1988 they had ditched EEC withdrawal, unilateral disarmament and overtaxing the rich.
How did Kinnock signal a split with the TUs?
He ended his support of closed-shop unions in 1989. This was the final act that made Labour seem like an electable alternative government.
How could Kinnock be blamed for losing the 1992 election?
At a rally in Sheffield, he was greeted as a conquering hero and over-confident, then accused of ‘American triumphantalism’ by over-celebrating on stage.
When was John Smith leader of Labour?
1992-94, Kinnock’s shadow chancellor.
What was Smith seen as as a leader, and what was his significant legislation in 1993?
A safe pair of economic hands, and moved to abolish the rate union block vote by introducing One Member, One Vote (OMOV) in 1993.
What was the point of Blair’s ‘New Labour’?
To escape the perception of the 1980s unelectable Labour.
What was Blair’s first shift towards New labour?
He wanted a dramatic policy shift, so convinced Labour in 1995 to rewrite Clause 4 of their constitution. Following the collapse of communism their socialist ideals seemed dead, Blair wanted to embrace the modern capitalist economy.
How did Gordon Brown change Labours perception as the ‘tax-and-spend’ economic party?
He promised Labour would follow Cons spending plans, which made Cons unable to attack their economic promises. It also meant that businesses were no longer fearful of a Labour government.
How can we see Blair effectively winning over ‘Middle England’?
He was a skilful communicator and had an air of moderation. He was attractive to women and young voters, partly due to Labour having a record number of female candidates.
How did the Conservative Party seem by 1997?
Mired in sleaze and scandal, tired and out of touch.
What song did Labour choose as its campaign theme in the 1997 election?
Modern pop song ‘Things can only get Better’.
Who was Alastair Campbell and how was he significant?
Blair’s press secretary, who used his journalistic experience to win over the media. The media, unenthusiastic about Major, were won over, neutralising one of the Cons party’s biggest weapons.
What were the 5 promises on the 1997 Labour Party pledge card?
Cut class sizes to 30 or under for primary schools.
Fast-track punishment for young offenders
Cut NHS waiting lists by treating 100,000 new patients by releasing £100 million for NHS.
Get 250,000 NEETs into work.
No rise in income, cut VAT to 5% and keep inflation & interest low.
