Post war consensus (1945-1979)

Question 1

What is corporatism?

Answer 1

mostly assoicated w fascist states like Italy- incorporation of pressure groups into the state itself. In UK the incorporation of leading sectional groups (CBI and TUC) into the decision making process- E.g.- THE NEDC ( national economic development council) formed 1962

Question 2

What is social conract?

Answer 2

the British government allowing the TUC and CBI to advise on economic policy in return for co-operation and implementation (e.g.- no strikes)

Question 3

What is tri-partism?

Answer 3

Th three parts of the social contract- The government, The CBI and the TUC

Question 4

What is the post-war consensus?

Answer 4

Broad agreement between parties on the role of the government- full employment, social contract, support for the welfare state

Question 5

What events in the 1970s helped end consensus politics?

Answer 5

Battle of Saltley- three days working week 1972 miners strike
The IMF crisis- led to devaluation of pound as Britain had to borrow millions from IMF
Callaghan’s speech- spending cuts would eventually lead to winter of discontent, 1973
Heath’s U turn- rejected minders demands for pay rise

Question 6

What was the post war political consensus?

Answer 6

welfare state- 1945-1979, every government spent more on welfare state than predecessor
full employment-very high levels of taxation and govt spending
Industrial cooperation- all govt sought good relationship w unions/workers
Mixed economy- old labour and one nation conservatism, privately owned and state owned industry