Political Parties AO1 Flashcards
What was the National Living Wage set at, for over 25s, in 2016?
When it was first created
£7.20
What was the purpose of the Education Maintenance Allowance (EMA) launched in 2004?
To help with tuition fees
EMA aimed to support students from low-income families in continuing their education.
What initiative did Blair introduce to assist the long-term unemployed?
Training for the long-term unemployed and working & family tax credits
These measures were aimed at improving employability and financial support for families.
What did Brown implement in 2010 regarding nursery places?
Expansion of free nursery places
This aimed to improve early childhood education access.
What was Corbyn’s goal for the UK’s energy sources by 2030?
60% of the UK’s energy from zero-carbon or renewable sources
This was part of a broader environmental policy focus.
What commitment did Starmer make regarding electricity by 2030?
Zero-carbon electricity system
This reflects ongoing efforts to address climate change.
What additional funding did Corbyn propose for the NHS in 2017?
£130 billion extra funding
This funding aimed to improve healthcare services.
What did Starmer propose for medical training in 2022?
Double medical school places and train 15,000 new doctors
This was intended to address healthcare workforce shortages.
What was the role of trade unions under Blair’s government?
Less powerful role
This reflects a shift in labor relations during Blair’s administration.
What commitment did Brown make in 2010 regarding living standards?
To raise living standards for the ‘squeezed middle’ from 2012
This aimed to address economic disparities.
What significant legislative change occurred with the House of Lords Act in 1999?
Removal of all but 92 hereditary peers from the House of Lords
This aimed to reform the House of Lords and reduce hereditary influence.
What were some of Blair’s commitments regarding taxation and education?
- Low income tax
- University fees
- Continuation of League Tables
- Formula Funding
- Ofsted
These policies were part of Blair’s broader education reform agenda.
What type of initiatives did Blair support for the NHS and economy?
Public-Private Initiatives
This approach aimed to leverage private investment in public services.
What did Blair advocate for in terms of policing?
Greater police presence and higher conviction rates
This was part of a crime reduction strategy.
What proposal did Brown make regarding hospitals in 2010?
To make all hospitals foundation trusts
This aimed to increase hospital autonomy and improve service delivery.
What controversial stance did May take regarding the outsourcing company Carillion?
Defended its private outsourcing and construction business
This was criticized for being socially and environmentally damaging.
What was May’s position regarding the European Union?
Strongly Eurosceptic
This influenced her approach to Brexit negotiations.
What significant change did Johnson make to the top rate of income tax?
Raised from £50,000 to £80,000
This benefited the highest earners.
What cuts did Cameron implement concerning public facilities?
Cuts to state-run public facilities
This was part of austerity measures during his government.
What was Cameron’s stance on regulating the economy?
Did not regulate the economy despite calls for energy companies to be capped
This reflects criticism of his economic policies.
What was the Tory manifesto’s proposal regarding energy prices in 2017?
Laid out caps on energy prices
This aimed to assist consumers amid rising costs.
What happened to May’s Brexit deal attempts?
Rejected all 3 of her Brexit deals
This reflects the challenges faced during the Brexit process.
What stance did Johnson take concerning NHS funding during COVID-19?
Backed state-funding of NHS
This was crucial during the pandemic response.
What did Johnson propose for former red wall constituencies after 2019?
Raised funding
This aimed to address regional disparities.
What was Cameron’s ‘Hug a Hoodie’ initiative aimed at?
To reduce crime among the young, working-class
This initiative sought to improve youth engagement.
What is the National Living Wage set at for those over 21, as of April 2025?
£12.21
This reflects efforts to improve minimum wage standards.
What economic event occurred between 2008 and 2010?
Global financial recession
This had widespread implications for economies worldwide.
What requirement exists for party donations over $7500?
Must be reported
This aims to ensure transparency in political funding.
What was significant about Ecclestone’s £1 million donation to Labour in 1997?
May have prompted a push back on an ad ban
This reflects the influence of funding on political decisions.
What fine did the Conservatives receive in 2021 from the Electoral Commission?
$17,800 for failing to record donations
This highlights accountability in political financing.
How is the BBC funded?
By public money (license fees)
This funding model supports public broadcasting.
Which parties receive more private funding than smaller parties?
Labour and Conservatives
This reflects disparities in political funding.
What would state-funding of parties imply?
A tax increase
This raises discussions about political financing and taxation.
What was the highest voter turnout percentage at a UK general election?
83.9% in 1950
This turnout reflects historical engagement in elections.
Describe a FPTP electoral system
Two-party system, winners bonus & safe seats
This system influences electoral outcomes and party dynamics.
What was the outcome of the Brexit party’s attempts in 2019?
Tried to target Labour seats but failed
This illustrates the challenges faced by new political movements.
What strategy did the Brexit party employ regarding Tory seats in 2019?
Stood down from Tory seats
This was part of a strategic alliance to maximize pro-Brexit votes.
What percentage of news outlets supported the Conservatives in 2019?
31%
This reflects media bias in political reporting.
What percentage of people got their news from social media in 2019?
49%
This indicates the growing influence of social media on public opinion.
What was the order of TV coverage for political parties?
- 1st Labour
- 2nd Conservatives
- 3rd Lib Dems (½ of the Tory’s)
This shows media representation of parties.
What electoral system does Wales use?
AMS (Additional Member System)
This system allows for a mixed electoral approach.
What was a significant achievement of the SNP in 2015?
Won 56/59 seats at Hollyrood
This reflects the SNP’s dominance in Scottish politics.
What factor contributes to the existence of a two-party system?
Fear that votes will be wasted otherwise
This influences voter behavior and party competition.
What was the Conservative ‘confidence and supply’ arrangement with the DUP from 2017-19?
A support agreement for governance
This arrangement was crucial for passing legislation.
What pressure did the Brexit party exert on the Conservatives in 2019?
To hold a referendum on EU membership
This was a significant moment in Brexit negotiations.
What scandal led to Johnson’s resignation in 2021?
Partygate scandal
This controversy surrounded breaches of COVID-19 restrictions.
What scandal involved bribes during 2006-7?
Cash-for-Honours scandal
This involved allegations of political corruption where people were given priviledges like a lordship in exchange for money.
How has social media impacted political engagement?
Mobilised new groups and minority parties
This highlights the evolving landscape of political activism.
