Prime Minister Case Studies Flashcards
Blair prominent events
Up to 2003, period of economic growth. Public services improving.
He initiated 2 successful overseas military campaigns (Kosovo and Sierra Leone ). Then ordered UK armed forces to join US-led Iraq invasion. Aftermath a disaster. Violence in Middle East grew, Blair seen as negative.
Blair control situations
-decided on military interventions, in control of foreign policy.
-first 8 years, no defeats in HOC.
Blair lack of control
Media turned away from hi, for invade Iraq + reputation suffered.
Brown given independence + authority at treasury; had to have his support for any initiative.
Liz truss loss of control
September 26, 2022 after her mini budget (scrapping the 45p tax rate for the wealthy) introduced on 23rd, the £ fell to a record low against US $. Market panic do BoE intervene to prevent financial crisis. When sunak replaced her, £ gradually recovered.
David Cameron successes
First same sex marriage in march 2019 legalised it despite opposition in his own party.
Harold Wilson leadership style
Liked ignoring his cabinet and made decisions regarding policy within small group of trusted advisers; his ‘kitchen cabinet.’
Theresa May successes
Championed modern slavery act 2015 ; a law against human trafficking.
May failures
Her withdrawal agreement rejected 3x as EU + others said it’s vital to avoid a chaotic exit.
Thatchers key laws/ goals achieved
‘Right To Buy’ enabled many ppl to buy their social housing and get onto the property ladder; popular in Conservative Party + she won support of some Wc voters.
Negative prominent events thatcher
Poll tax in 1989/90 was unpopular, huge riots London and many refused to Pay; she pursued the policy despite opposition from all sides + her own party + w/o consulting local exon,of measures.
-unpopular economic measures ; privatisation of state-owned industries e.g British Gas; workers redundant, rise inequality.
