New Labour, New Century 2001-7: 1 Elections of 2001 and 2005 Flashcards
1
Q
results of the 2001 election?
A
Lab 413 v Cons 166
Lab did lose nearly 3 million votes however commentators put that down to apathy among the electorate which led to a 59% turnout compared to 71% in 1997
2
Q
what were Labour’s strengths for the 2001 election?
A
- Blair’s personal popularity
- finances seemed secure with Gordon Brown as chancellor of the exchequer
- Blair took a number of initiatives with regards to NI
- improved public services
3
Q
what were the Conservative’s weaknesses for the 2001 election
A
- William Hague’s (Con leader) qualities did not translate into popularity in the country at large
- Cons ran a poor campaign as they lacked a clear set of targets - main line of opposition was to adopting the euro but it failed to attract floating voters
4
Q
results of the 2005 election
A
Lab 356 v Cons 198
Cons gained 32 more seats than previously
Lib Dems won nearly 6 million votes (nearly 2/3 of Labs)
5
Q
Labour reasons for 2005 election victory
A
- Iraq war lost Blair some popularity but he was still regarded as the outstanding choice
- knowledge of economic difficulties began spreading but it wasn’t widespread for a factor against the gov
- backed by spin doctors - Blair was an experienced political operator who knew how to project his image
6
Q
Cons weaknesses in 2005 election
A
- Cons supported gov’s decision to go into Iraq so were unable to gain from mounting criticism of the war
- could not make significant inroads into Labour’s lead
- Con Party had 3 different leaders within two years (Hague replaced in 2001 by Smith, Smith replaced by Howard in 2003) - made the party appear divided
- Howard emphasised immigration and law and order though whilst home secretary under Major he was not impressive with regards to the issues (embarrassing)
- Howard’s sinister image given to him through Ann Widdecombe saying he has ‘something of the night about him’ in 1997 could not be shaken
