Labours Time in Office (1945-51)

What did Clement Attlee promise to build? (3)

A new Jerusalem - a prosperous and equal society

He introduced a Welfare state in Britain

The government stepped in and provided extensive support to the public

What did the Labour government acheive in its first 5 years of governing? (4)

Established the NHS in 1948 - government intervention is healthcare

Passed the National Health Insurance Act in 1946 - government could provide greater welfare provision to the public

Began decolonisation of the British Empire

Intervened in the economy to create jobs - reduced unemployment

What did the Conservatives begin to do? (2)

They began adopting Labour policies eg. attempting full employment and state intervening

They recognised this was the mood in the country

What was the post-war consensus?

The shared commitment by Conservatives and Labour to help the country more after WWII through intervention

What was the Industrial Charter 1947? (2)

A crucial document that highlighted that the Conservative party had agreed to many of the economic and social policies endorsed by Labour

This included commitment to a mixed economy

What happened to Labours Majority in the 1950 General Election?

Cut from 145 seats to 5

What happened in 1951? (2)

Labour lost the general election to Churchill’s Conservatives

They wona 17 seat majority

Labour continuation of WWII measures (2)

Forced to continue rationing - deeply resented by public

Even some products such as bread were rationed for the first time in years after WWII

NHS: Changes in 1951 (3)

Prescription payments were introduced for the first time

This was in order to help fund the Korean War

These payments split the Labour Cabinet and were seen to go against their 1945 manifesto

Why were Labour weakened?

Lost key politicians sch as Ernest Bevin and Stafford Cripps at a time when the Conservatives were growing