Poltics: Voting & Media: 1997 Leaders Flashcards
When did John Major become Prime Minister?
John Major became Prime Minister in 1990, following the departure of Margaret Thatcher.
What was John Major’s political achievement in the 1992 General Election?
He led his party to victory, keeping a small majority despite many polls predicting a Labour win.
What was a significant challenge John Major faced during his leadership?
He struggled to control his backbenchers and some in his cabinet, leading to a loss of parliamentary majority.
What infamous phrase did John Major use regarding his MPs?
He famously described some of his cabinet ministers as ‘bastards’.
What challenge did John Redwood pose to John Major in 1995?
John Redwood challenged him for the leadership after Major issued his ‘put up or shut up’ challenge.
How did Tony Blair’s comment during Prime Minister’s Questions affect John Major’s image?
Blair stated, ‘I lead my party; he follows his’, reinforcing Major’s image as a weak leader.
What image problem did the Conservative Party face leading up to the 1997 election?
The party was seen as divided, mired in sleaze, and lacking a coherent image.
What was John Major’s ‘get back to basics’ speech about?
It called on the British people to embrace traditional family values, which led to scrutiny of Conservative ministers’ behavior.
What was the ‘Cash for Questions’ affair?
It involved allegations that Conservative backbenchers accepted payments for asking questions in the House of Commons.
What perception contributed to the Conservative Party’s defeat in the 1997 election?
The perception that the party was weak, divided, sleazy, and corrupt contributed to the election result.
What did Theresa May suggest about the Conservative Party in 2002?
She suggested that the party was seen as ‘the nasty party’, relying on a narrow base and attacking minorities.
What was notable about the Conservative Party manifesto of 1997?
It was described as ‘bold’ but lacked eye-catching policies, focusing on continuity from previous years.
What was the most eye-catching policy in the Conservative Party manifesto of 1997?
A tax allowance proposal to encourage traditional nuclear families.
How did Tony Blair’s leadership differ from John Major’s?
Blair was seen as young, charismatic, and energetic, while Major was viewed as grey and uncharismatic.
What significant change did the Labour Party undergo under Tony Blair?
The party distanced itself from its left-wing history and positioned itself more in the political center.
What were the five pledges in Labour’s manifesto for the 1997 election?
- Cut class sizes to 30 or under for young children. 2. Fast-track punishment for young offenders. 3. Cut NHS waiting lists. 4. Get under-25s off benefits into work. 5. No rise in income tax rates.
What was the campaign slogan for Labour in the 1997 election?
The campaign song was ‘Things Can Only Get Better’ and slogans included ‘Britain deserves better’ and ‘New Labour: New Britain’.
What was the significance of the ‘Cool Britannia’ image?
It was used to appeal to middle-class and young voters, showcasing Tony Blair’s modern image.
