Living standards under Conservatives

How much more goods could Britain import in the late 1950s compared to 1951?

Around 2 and a half times more.

What factor helped people buy more goods in the late 1950s?

Greater availability of credit.

What contributed to high earnings from exports and investments in Britain during the late 1950s?

Increase in overseas trade.

Who was RAB Butler and what was his contribution to the economy?

RAB Butler boosted prospects with a 'giveaway budget' that profited the middle class by £134 million in tax cuts.

What was the unemployment rate in Britain by 1955?

Only 200,000 unemployed, which was less than 1% of the workforce.

By 1960, how many people were employed in service sector industries in Britain?

Nearly 5 million, which was one in five of the population.

How many houses were built in Britain between 1951 and 1964?

1.7 million houses, with 60% being private.

What was the annual target for house construction during 1951-1964?

300,000 houses per year.

How did mortgages affect home ownership in Britain during the 1950s?

Mortgages allowed more people to own homes.

What was the wage increase for adult male workers from 1951 to 1964?

Wages doubled from £8.30 in 1951 to £18.36 in 1964.

What significant legislation was passed in 1957 regarding housing?

The Rent Act 1957, which abolished rent control and put 6 million properties on the market.

What was the impact of credit on consumer behavior in the late 1950s?

Credit enabled people to borrow large sums of money, often beyond their means.

What was the annual figure for sleepless nights in Britain during the mid-1950s?

Over 9 million, rising in the late 1950s.

What demographic trend was observed in Britain after 1952?

An acceleration of the birth rate.

What was the population of Great Britain by 1962?

52 million people, which was 5% more than in 1951.

How did trade unions exert pressure during this period?

They used industrial action, like strikes, to pressure employers or the government.

When did food rationing end in Britain?

In July 1954.