Heaths Leadership Flashcards
Who was Edward Heath?
Edward Heath was the UK Prime Minister from 1970 to 1974 and leader of the Conservative Party. He was pro-European and part of the One Nation Conservatives.
What was Heath’s major European achievement?
He successfully secured British membership of the European Economic Community (EEC) in 1973.
What led to the downfall of Heath’s leadership?
A massive political and economic crisis from 1973, leading to electoral defeat in 1974 and loss of Conservative leadership to Margaret Thatcher in 1975.
How was Heath different from previous Conservative leaders?
He was the first Conservative leader educated at a state grammar school, rather than coming from an elite background.
What were Heath’s weaknesses as a leader?
He was seen as stiff and lacking charisma, making him ineffective at building political alliances.
What were Heath’s government priorities?
Industrial relations and economic modernization, along with securing EEC membership.
Who were Heath’s main critics within the Conservative Party?
Right-wing Conservatives like Margaret Thatcher, Enoch Powell, and Keith Joseph, who rejected the post-war consensus.
What is Thatcherism?
The economic and political policies of Margaret Thatcher, which rejected One Nation Conservatism and promoted free-market policies.
What phrase was used to criticize Thatcher’s education policy?
“Thatcher, Thatcher, milk snatcher” – for ending free school milk for students over seven.
What was the ‘long sulk’?
After losing the leadership to Thatcher in 1975, Heath remained critical of Thatcherism and never forgave her for changing the Conservative Party.
What was Heath’s major economic failure?
The 1973 OPEC energy crisis, leading to inflation, industrial strikes, and the “Three-Day Week.”
What was the significance of the 1975 Conservative Leadership Election?
It marked the end of Heath’s leadership and the rise of Thatcher, who moved the party to the right.
