Why did Thatcher win 3 general elections

Question 1

Why did people not vote Labour in 1979

Answer 1

• Perceived failure to deal with inflation, unemployment & trade unions
• Winter of discontent
  Enlarged middle class resented strikes & trade union power

Question 2

Liberal vote influence 1979

Answer 2

Votes dropped by over 1 million because some voters blamed Liberals for keeping Callaghan in office
Collapse in some constituencies was enough to give seat to Conservatives

Question 3

Financial times observation on results day

Answer 3

This is a very divided country

Question 4

Reasons Conservatives won in 1983

Answer 4

• Falklands victory - increased personal popularity of Thatcher

Question 5

Reasons Labour lost in 1983

Answer 5

Michael Foot as leader (1980) was bad move.
Lacked an assured manner on TV
‘Old fashioned’ view in unilateral nuclear disarmament & further nationalisation of industry
Had little appeal to those other than traditional labour supporters.
Split - moderate members formed SDP March 1981

Question 6

Labour manifesto 1983 described as

Answer 6

Longest suicide note in history - because out of touch

Question 7

1987 election

Answer 7

Conservatives won more votes than last 2 but less seats

Question 8

Reasons Conservative’s won in 1987

Answer 8

• ‘right to buy’ and shares in privatised industries appealed to middle class & skilled working class
• These people benefitted or believed government supported their desire to increase their wealth
• Unemployment was falling
• The pound was strong

Question 9

Reasons Labour lost in 1987

Answer 9

• Kinnock (leader) had long-winded speeches
• Thatcher seemed a stronger leader with firm hold over colleagues
• Kinnock did manage to bring the party back to centre & criticised prominent left-wingers