John Major as a PM

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John Major as a PM

Advantages

  • Got rid of the Poll tax in 1991 that Thatcher had brought in
  • Brought in the Citizen's charter which was to give more power to the people
  • He won the election in 1992
  • Sun newspaper began to support the conservative party over the labour party
  • The Maastricht Treaty was signed creating a tighter relationship with Europe
  • Made significant contribution to foreign policy - The Gulf War 1991, Bosnia 1995, Ireland 1993 with the Downing Street Declaration
  • Let America get involved with Ireland- The Mitchell report 1996

Disadvantages

  • Had to deal with the issues left over from Thatcher's time in office
  • Was nothing like Thatcher and was not an inspiring figure
  • Did not create a lasting impression
  • Big target of Spitting Image and other satirical shows
  • Lost 40 seats in the 1992 election
  • Withdrew from the ERM to try and strengthen the pound causing many issues
  • Had issues with the Euro-Rebels who tried to stop the Maastricht treaty being signed in 1993
  • Never had full support from his party- key theme throughout time in office
  • Since he was elected his position was weakened by a press campaign showing the Conservative's to be guilty of sexual scandal
  • BIggest defeat was the 1997 election where they lost 171 seats.

Evaluation

Overall Major did make huge contributions to the foreign affairs of Britain and strengthening the relationships held with Europe. His biggest achievement was truly the work he did with Northern Ireland and being able to quell the issues that had been ongoing since the 1960's.However, he was also perceived as a weak forgettable leader. although his main reason for losing was due to his lack of control over the cabinet he did display some traits of being able to cope as a war leader. 

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