Mock

Question 1

Legalisation of abortion

Answer 1

Until 1967, abortion (except on strict medical terms) was illegal
Fees expensive for private clinic abortions, so some had backstreet abortions
100,000-200,000 having illegal abortions admitted to hospital with implications, 82 women died (1958-1960) backstreet
Abortion law reform association campaigned, but was thalidomide disaster (1959-1962) increased polls voting in favour of abortion
Abortion act, supported by liberal MP David steel, labour government and many conservatives, permitted legal termination of pregnancy up to 28 weeks- justification, women’s mental suffering
Abortions increased from 35000 in 1968 to 141000 in 1975

Question 2

Educational reform

Answer 2

In greater London, local education authorities established comprehensive schools, as current system socially divisive
Comps-every pupil had equal opportunities to learn at their own pace & sit exams based on their own abilities
By 1964, 1 in 10 educated at comp,10x amount in 1951
1965-Tony Crosland (main supporter of comp) became minister of education -accelerated process
By 1970, only 8 authorities failed to convert,& 1145 comps catering for 1 in 3 state educated pupils
Hard to say level of success-caused disruption, middle class not convinced
Some turned to direct grant schools or independent schools, flawed from start

Question 3

The end of capital punishment

Answer 3

In 1957, anti-hanging campaigners had reduced the number of death sentences but labour member Sydney Silverman continued campaign for complete abolition
In 1965 hanging banned for trial period & in 1969, made permanent
Jenkins brought in ‘majority verdicts’, which was helpful in convicting many dangerous and professional criminals - however didn’t reduce rates of violent crimes

Question 4

Divorce reform

Answer 4

Until 60’s, had to commit adultery in order to get divorce, Jenkins believed these laws were out of date, so he passed divorce reform act in 1969 allowing couples the ‘no fault divorce’
Huge increase in divorce rates (1950 2/1000, mid 70’s 10/1000)

Question 5

Legislation of homosexual relations

Answer 5

Until 1960’s, men could be imprisoned for homosexual acts
There was split in government as to whether homosexuality should be decriminalised or not
Lee Abse, with Jenkins support passed 1967 sexual offences act, didn’t legalise homosexuality but gave these conditions
-both had to consent
-both over 21
-in private
Did not put complete end to prosecutions for homosexual practises

Question 6

Censorship (private members bills)

Answer 6

Majority of increasing votes regarding legislation were to do with private members bills
In 1960’s backbench MP’s brought forward reforms regarding this - successful as Jenkins was sympathetic and so organised enough parliamentary time to pass the reforms