End of Thatcher and Major Flashcards
Why did Thatcher resign as prime minister in 1990?
The impact of poll tax- on the 31st march 1990 the day before the tax was due to take effect there was a massive demonstration against it in Trafalgar Square which turned into a violent riot in which 300 people were arrested and 400 policemen hurt.
Economic difficulties- June 1989 inflation was at 8.3%. Lawson tried to control inflation by controlling interest rates and in October 1989 they were at 15%. Home owners found themselves paying heavily for homes they were encouraged to buy.
Many voters began to turn on Thatcher and her leadership which caused many to move towards Labour
Why were the Conservatives defeated so badly under Major in 1997?
Majors lack of authority- major was only elected due to the majority of conservatives not wanted heseltine as PM. Major had very limited experience and had only been an MP for 11 years.
Black Wednesday
sleaze and scandal
New labour
