Seminar Prep For Prescription Charges

Question 1

Do you agree with Gaitskell that the national interest should over ride the Labour Party interest?

Answer 1

1. Theoretically, a labour gov means one can assume national interests run in tandem with Labour Party principles, so you would assume this symmetry should be mirrored by a governments actions
2. Part of being in gov means making decisions that may not go down very well within the party in order to promote prosperity of the country
3. Ethical dilemma, choices may hinder you from being elected again but be of benefit to your country in the long run

Question 2

Why can we describe the row over prescription charges as a battle for the soul of the Labour Party?

Answer 2

It is a reflection/ microcosm of rifts within the Labour Party