To what extent was 1945-51 a "period of gloom."

To what extent was 1945-51 a "period of gloom."

1. Economic

   • Yes
     • Military expenditure x 5 from 1938-46.
     • £4198 million debt.
     • 1945 £750 million budget deficit.
     • Cripp's austerity / rationing.
   • No
     • Marshall Plan: £6000 million
     • Wage freeze stabilised inflation.
     • Cold war credentials from nuclear weapons.

2. Social

   • Yes
     • Harsh winter 1947.
     • Dandruff syndrome.
     • Tripartite school system flawed.
   • No
     • 1948: Bevan compromised with BMA = NHS.
     • Housing e.g. Stevenage.
     • Morale high after war.

3. Political

   • Yes
     • Internal Labour divisions - Bevanite prescription charges. .
     • Loss of imperial status.
   • No
     • NATO
     • Indian independence.
     • Post-war consensus = collectivism.