Macmillan - political Flashcards
What happened to colonialism under Macmillan?
Dead or dying in the 1960s. On a trip to Africa, Macmillan stated that it was only politically realistic and morally acceptable to grant independence to those who wished it.
When did Britain apply to the EEC?
1963
What happened to the British application to the EEC?
It was vetoed by the French (De Gaulle)
Why was Britain rejected from the EEC?
French were unhappy with British economic ties to the commonwealth and the free trade area that created was seen as opposition to the principles of the EEC.
If Britian joined, France would no longer be the dominant member
Seen as a way for Americans to gain power in Europe
What was the Vassall inquiry?
Government was forced to investigate John Vassall, a civil servant, found that he was spying for the Soviet Union - when no evidence was found with the inquiry, the government was accused of a cover up.
What was the Argyll divorce case?
During a divorce trial it was revealed by the Duke that the Duchess had had an affair with other people, including two unidentified ministers.
What was discovered about Kim Philby?
Key member of the foreign office, who was found to have been spying for the Soviet Union while also recruiting new agents and running a spy network.
What happened with the Philby case?
After he fled to Moscow in January 1963, Macmillan’s government experienced the brunt of the blame for not spotting a traitor at the heart of the Establishment
When was the Profumo Affair?
March 1963
Who was John Profumo?
A conservative MP - a junior minister, not in the Cabinet.
What happened with the Profumo Affair?
Profumo had an affair with Christine Keyler, who was also involved with a Soviet spy. Issues caused by minister for war and soviet having the same lover. Profumo denied this allegations, however letters were found proving his involvement, leading to his resignation
What were the consequences of the Profumo Affair?
Macmillan was attacked in the house of commons. Lots of MPs abstained in a vote of no confidence. Macmillan resigned in October.
What leadership problems did Labour deal with?
After 1959 election, Gaitskell turned on the left, causing divide in the party. Gaitskell failed to adopt the right stance on the EEC, making Labour appear hardly progressive and forward looking.
Who were the Bevanites?
The left side of the labour party
What were the policies of the Bevanites?
Committed to greater state control and direction of the economy and society. Wanted large trade unions to have a voice in party policy because they believed it better reflected the working class.
What issue initially divided the Labour party in 1950?
Split into Left and Right factions because of the introduction of prescription charges
What else divided the Labour party?
Unilateralism and nationalism
What were the issues with Labour’s policies?
Presented poorly planned and rushed policies such as there scheme to increase state pensions without taxation - torn apart by critics, how would it be financed?
Stance on the EEC failed to reflect the zeitgeist
Policies were unclear - shifted their stance in 1960 to support unilateralists but then reverted this in 1961
What were the issues with Douglas Home?
Foreign Secretary at the time of the Profumo Affair, tainting his reputation.
True aristocrat - born into an aristocratic family in Mayfair London
Failed to win his local seat in the 1945 election
