The 1979 Election

The 1979 Election

Problems faced by Labour in the 1970s
1. They had won a majority of 3 in 1974 - made them vulnerable
  1. This was lost in by-elections
    1. By 1979 they were kept in power by the Liberals
      1. They looked weak in the eyes of the voters
2. Economic problems
  1. Couldn't solve world economic crisis
    1. Inflation at 26%
      1. Unemployment trebled
        Bailed out in 1976 by IMF
    2. Winter of discontent 1978-79
      1. Many unions went on strike
        Rubbish was piled up in the streets
  2. The Conservatives attacked Labour over this in the campaign
    1. Labour isn't working poster
Role of the Media
1. The Sun backed the Conservatives
  1. Attacked Callaghan for not solving problems
    1. 'Crisis what crisis' headline
      1. Callaghan criticised for trying to downplay economic problems
2. Increased importance of TV
  1. Campaign events timed so they could appear on TV news
Leaders
1. Thatcher was the first female leader
  1. Success in capturing female vote
    1. Won 47% of female vote to Labour's 35%
2. Callaghan considered more experienced
  1. Thatcher was not considered to be a vote winner at this stage
    1. Voters thought she wasn't in touch with ordinary people
      1. Found her condescending and extreme
Social Factors
1. Class
  1. Conservatives dominant in higher social groups
    1. 59% of vote amongst ABC1
  2. Labour strong in DE voters - 49%
  3. C2 voters - 41% each for main parties
    1. They would normally vote Lab so positive for the Cons
2. Geography
  1. All regions saw a swing to the Conservatives
    1. This was more pronounced in the South
3. Age
  1. 18-24 year old was evenly split
    1. Cons won all other age groups
      1. Biggest drop in Labour support was 35-54 group

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	Criado por Dan Bacon mais de 6 anos atrás