Thatcher's economic policies and their impact: monetarism; privatisation; deregulation; issues of inflation, unemployment and economic realignment
Thatcher used a set of radical economic policies to shrink the state and free up markets. These policies cut inflation but also caused mass unemployment and permanently changed Britain's economy.
Real World
When Thatcher's government sold British Telecom in 1984 and British Gas in 1986, millions of ordinary people bought shares for the first time — 'Tell Sid' became a national advertising campaign encouraging mass share ownership.
Exam Focus
Distinguish between short-term costs (unemployment peaking at 3.3 million by 1984) and long-term gains (inflation fell from 22% to 3%) to show analytical balance.
Essay Framework
Use PEEL to structure every paragraph. Tap each step for guidance and an example.
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