Liberal Reforms

Liberal Reforms. Why did the Liberals put them forward and what were their effects? 1906 -1914.

?

Liberal Reforms

Causes

  • The Liberal's new ideology of 'New Liberalism' which stressed freedom from evils such as poverty, low wages and insecurity. Believed intervention from state was key to establishing minimum standards of life.
  • Pressure from Labour and the Lib-Lab pact. The social reforms were made to combat any appeal of the new Labour Party, as they posed as a threat - although this threat was minor.
  • There was a general concern around the issue of poverty, highlighted by the works of Booth and Rowntree and the 1904 government report on 'physical deterioration.' Action on social reform was neglected by the Conservatives and so would strengthen Liberal reputation.

Effects

  • Amelioration of some poverty.
  • Improved the health and treatment towards children - Protective legislation Act, Education Act. For adults, some financial aid was provided through the Workmen's Compensation Act (1906.) Old Age Pensions Act (1908) and both National Insurance Acts. (1911)
  • Working conditions and in some cases wages were improved through measures for merchant seamen (1906), miners (1908), shop workers (1911) and those in the sweated trades (e.g. tailoring, lace-spinning, and box making) (1909). The introduction of Labour Exchanges (1908) brought employers and potential employees together.
  • However some acts were too restricted - Old Age Pensions Act only available to those over 70. Education Acts of 1906 were not compulsory.
  • Liberals did little to tackle poor housing so many people remained living in slums and the poor law was not yet abolished.

Overall summary

After winning a landslide victory in 1906, the Liberals proposed social reforms due to their belief of 'New Liberalism' and pressure from other parties. Poverty was a great concern within Britain and through the Acts, it was partly ameliorated, Although the Acts benefited many, it still contained drawbacks and it's effectiveness is limited by it's harsh restrictions as to who the acts appealed to.

Comments

No comments have yet been made

Similar History resources:

See all History resources »See all Modern Britain - 19th century onwards resources »