LG Post-War Social Reforms

Named after Christopher Addison, the Minister of Health. 

Strengths

It encouraged local authorities to clear slums and build low rent homes for the working classes.

By 1922, 200,000 good quality 'council houses' had been built.

Weaknesses

Addison was no economist.

He ended up paying £910 per house, whereas the true cost was only £385.

LG had to eventually sack Addison.

Any real improvements in housing were attributed to Labour controlled local councils, who were responsible for implementing the policy.

H.A.L Fisher was Minister for Education 

Raised the school leaving age to 14

Promised part-time education to 18

Old Age Pensions were extended.

War Widow's Pensions were introduced.

Extended unemployment benefit to cover an extra 8 million workers earning below the average wage - therefore now 12 million. 

Aim - to protect workers against unemployment.

LG appointed Sir Eric Geddes to examine government spending in 1921.

Geddes Axe - government cuts of £86 million, mostly in education and public health.

LG reduced the cuts to £64 million but still...

A 'Land Fit for Heroes' failed to materialise - however, the gvnt was expected to provide more public services - housing and education.