CONSERVATIVES 1955 - 1957

CONSERVATIVES 1955 - 1957

1. Suez Causes.

   • Britain, France, Israel secret discussions.
   • UN not involved due to Soviet Union blocking all proposals.
   • UK vetoed a UN ceasefire.
   • Eden = memories of appeasement.
   • Eden = poor health.
   • Eden's annoyance with Eisenhower.
   • July 1956 Suez canal nationalised by Nassar.

2. Suez Consequences.

   • Admission Britain could no longer act alone.
   • Eisenhower anger.
   • "Last throw" of British imperialism.
   • Led to closer union with Europe.
   • 'Run on sterling' threatened economic collapse.
   • Britain had no more moral high ground over Soviets in Hungary.

3. Other Policies.

   • According to Tory press: "lacking the smack of firm government."
   • Tried to compensate for poor domestic policy with foreign policy.
   • Election soon after becoming PM in 1955 = increased majority.
     • 'Only real success of his short administration.'