Power of the PM

Question 1

Examples of Thatcher dominating her cabinet

Answer 1

• Thatcher fired three ministers who were critical of her monetary polices. Tends to fire ministers who were ‘wets’ (one nation conservatives).

Question 2

Examples of Thatcher not dominating her cabinet

Answer 2

• Lots of ministers resigned, Michael Heseltine left and became a key rival of Thatcher.
• Deputy PM Geoffrey Howe’s resignation was said to be the end of Thatcher’s premiership.

Question 3

Example of May dominating her cabinet

Answer 3

• Forcing defence secretary Gavin Williamson to resign after the Huawei leak scandal.

Question 4

Example of May not dominating her cabinet

Answer 4

• Lots of cabinet resignations over her stance and efforts on Brexit e.g Boris Johnson, David Davis etc.