Conservative Governments And Reasons For Political Dominance Flashcards
Why wasn’t it clear that the conservatives would dominate govt?
-1951 lab won more votes but FPTP electoral system meant cons won more seats
-lab MPs regarded new PM Churchill a tired old man
-also believed cons would struggle with intense econ difficulties
What was Churchill like as PM in terms of his experience?
-cabinet minister both lib + cons govt 1906-40
-PM 1940 + led Br to war victory 1945
-PM again 1951-55 but not a great post war PM
Why was churchill not a good PM?
-was 80 when retired 1955 with many serious ailments — stroke 1953 left him with impaired speech
-thought of himself as international statesman + not domestic politician — spent more time abroad with world leaders + relaxing at holiday resorts
-believed key policy ensuring no new conflict broke out due to dangers nuclear war
What was his history with the liberals?
-started off as cons + joined liberals 1904 as liberal cabinet minister before ww1
-rejoined cons 1924
-1950s attempted persuade liberals join cons
What was the impact of his absenteeism?
-day to day govt left with acting PM Eden, chancellor butler + housing minister Mac
-Eden + Churchill tensions — Eden inpatient waiting for Churchill step down
-butler + mac didn’t get on + rivalries lasted 13 years
What was Eden like in terms of his experience?
-experience as foreign secretary + played key role ww2
-disputes over lack of experience + interest in domestic affairs
-anxious in decision making
-conscious over lack of knowledge on econ issues
What was edens key aim?
-prevent industrial conflict which led to criticism
-he was too conciliatory with the unions
How did his decision in suez 1956 affect his reputation?
-soured his rep as ended in disaster
-under heavy attack from lab + national press e.g. ,Manchester guardian
-accused of lying to HOC
-Eden never recovers + resigned over ill health 1957
How did the suez crisis cause problems with the cons?
-colonial minister Nutting resigned
-rebellion 40 MPs
-chief whip Heath strongly opposed actions
What will MacMillan like as PM in terms of his experience?
-Churchill’s military liaison officer during WW2
-housing minister 1951-55
-foreign secretary under Eden
What were MacMillan key beliefs?
-political shaped by 2 WW + Great Depression 1930s
-one nation conservative
-supported intervention in suez
-seen as safe choice for PM + had few enemies
What happened under MacMillan?
-party unity restored
-apparent economic prosperity + post war econ boom continuing
-nicknamed ‘supermac’ + led cons to comfortable victory pushing majority to 100 seats
-had media in palm of hand using new TV opportunities
