The Labour Party Flashcards
What is socialism?
It’s a social and economic system characterised by public ownership of the means of production and do-operative management of the economy.
What are some of the core principles of socialism?
The state needs to create a better life for its citizens. Equality in both social and economic areas.
State ownership of property is preferable over private ownership.
The economy should be controlled by the government.
Freedom of religion and speech.
Progressive taxes.
What are the origins of the Labour Party?
They were founded in 1900 as the political arm of the trade union movement in order to give it representation in Parliament.
They have socialist roots, although over the years they’ve moderated their policies.
Their aim is to approve a classless and equal society.
During the post WW2 period, what were Labour developing?
They created the welfare state and the NHS.
They advocated higher taxes on the rich and nationalisation.
There was a strong link with the trade unions.
Most of its support came from the working class.
What happened to Labour in 1997?
They won their biggest election victory ever
What was Gordon Brown’s reign as PM known for?
The 2008-09 economic crash as well as the massive bailouts of the banks with them all being nationalised.
What happened with Labour during the 2019 election?
They had their biggest defeat in an election ever.
Their problems were mainly centred around allegations of anti-semitism in it’s left wing ranks.
Corbin appeared slow to condemn remarks of proven instances of anti-semitism, and he was also criticised for not having a clear policy on Brexit.
