Macmillian Flashcards
Who was Harold Macmillan and when did he become Prime Minister?
Harold Macmillan became Prime Minister in January 1957 after Anthony Eden resigned. He previously held roles such as Minister of Housing, Defence, Foreign Secretary, and Chancellor of the Exchequer.
What was meant by the term ‘Grouse Moor Tory’?
It referred to Macmillan’s elitist background. His Cabinet was dominated by upper-class men, including 6 Etonians, and many were his relatives, leading to accusations of nepotism.
What was ‘Supermac’?
A nickname given to Macmillan from a 1958 cartoon. It highlighted his elegant style, media skills, and strong political presence, especially in foreign affairs.
What did Macmillan famously say in his 1957 speech in Bedford?
“Most of our people have never had it so good.” He reflected on post-war prosperity but questioned if it would last.
What was the economic situation during the ‘Age of Affluence’?
The UK enjoyed prosperity with rising incomes, car ownership, better household goods, and leisure opportunities. Weekly wages rose from £8.30 in 1951 to £18.35 in 1964.
What economic strategy did the Conservatives follow during this period?
They followed the Post-War Consensus and ‘Stop-Go’ policies to control inflation and deflation while maintaining full employment and welfare.
What were the major economic problems during Macmillan’s time?
Low productivity, a balance of payments deficit (importing more than exporting), inflation, and slow growth compared to countries like the US, Germany, and Japan.
What was the ‘Night of the Long Knives’ (1962)?
A Cabinet reshuffle where Macmillan dismissed a third of his government, including Selwyn Lloyd. It was seen as poorly handled and damaged his reputation.
What were the major scandals under Macmillan’s government?
George Blake Spy Scandal (1961) – MI6 agent spying for the USSR.
• John Vassall Spy Scandal (1962) – Admiralty clerk blackmailed over his homosexuality.
• Profumo Affair (1963) – Defence Secretary Profumo’s affair with Christine Keeler, linked to a Soviet spy.
Why was Britain’s application to the EEC in 1963 rejected?
France’s President Charles de Gaulle vetoed the application, stating Britain was not ready. Macmillan was devastated and wrote that “all our policies at home and abroad are in ruins.”
Who were the party leaders during the 1959 General Election?
Harold Macmillan (Conservative), Hugh Gaitskell (Labour), Jo Grimond (Liberal).
What was the Conservative slogan during the 1959 General Election?
“Life is better with the Conservatives, don’t let Labour ruin it.”
What helped the Conservatives win the 1959 election?
Pre-election economic boom
• £370 million in tax cuts
• Macmillan’s high personal approval
• Prosperity message: “never had it so good”
What weakened the Labour Party’s campaign in 1959?
Internal divisions between left and right factions
• Disputes over nuclear weapons and the Campaign for Nuclear Disarmament (CND)
• Industrial disputes in the 1950s
What was Hugh Gaitskell’s proposal at the 1959 Labour Party Conference?
He proposed removing Clause IV (commitment to nationalisation) from the party constitution, but was overruled by members.
What was Labour’s 1959 manifesto called and what did it aim to do?
Britain Belongs to You. It pledged to:
• Reverse cuts to welfare and NHS spending
• Renationalise steel and road haulage
• Reform education
• Create the Welsh Office
What mistake did Gaitskell make during the campaign?
He claimed Labour wouldn’t raise taxes despite pledges to increase spending, which led to doubts about Labour’s credibility.
What were the 1959 General Election results?
Conservatives: 49.5% vote share, 365 seats (gained 20)
• Labour: 43.8% vote share, 258 seats (lost 19)
• Liberal: Only 6 MPs, but increased vote share to 5.9%
