The European Referendum

Question 1

When did lab part return to gov and what was Wilson main aim?

Answer 1

-returned 1974;
-Wilson’s main aim was party unity demonstrated in referendum campaign 1974

Question 2

What was Wilson’s main strategy?

Answer 2

-to allow his anti-European cab colleagues campaign according to own views + not enforce a party line

Question 3

What was support like for the EEC by 1975}

Answer 3

-by 1975 voter support much stronger than before
-econ mess of country seemed proved Br needed EEC for own econ survival + most of press strongly in favour

Question 4

What was the ‘yes’ campaign?

Answer 4

-campaign well financed by business supporters - survey 1975 found 4 of 419 company chairmen
-head of ‘yes’ campaign incl Jenkins, Heath, most senior cons + head of lib Jeremy Thorpe

Question 5

What was the ‘no’ campaign?

Answer 5

-fell into two categories
-those argued was bad for Br workers - included Castle + Foot
-others argued against on basis Br lose its independence - incl Benn + Powell

Question 6

What was the question asked in the referendum?

Answer 6

-‘do you think the UK should stay in the EEC?

Question 7

What was the outcome?

Answer 7

-17m said yes - 68% 1975
-8m said no - 32% + Br membership confirmed