Thatchers resignation

Question 1

3 factors for Thatchers resignation (1990)

Answer 1

1. poll tax (introduced in England in 90)
2. economic difficulties
3. personal unpopularity + party divisions

Question 2

poll tax

Answer 2

replaced ‘the rates’

• introduced by the ‘local government finance act (1988)
• day before it came into effect, there was a large demonstration at Trafalgar Square where 300 arrested

Question 3

economic difficulties

Answer 3

• 1987 stock market crash wiped 24% of share prices
• Lawsons reduction in income tax (88’ budget) lead to inflation at 8%

Question 4

Divisions over Europe

Answer 4

• thatcher supported the free market
• divisions over the ERM (lawson and howe)

Question 5

cabinet divisions

Answer 5

• 1989 she demoted Howe (Dep PM)
• 1989 Lawsons resignation as chancellor

Question 6

opinion poll stats (unpopularity)

Answer 6

1990 - Labour 16 points infront of Tories