Labour governments of Wilson and Callaghan: political, economic and industrial problems and policies; problems of Northern Ireland
Harold Wilson and James Callaghan led Labour governments between 1974 and 1979. Both faced severe economic crises, damaging strikes, and escalating violence in Northern Ireland.
Real World
In 1976 Callaghan was forced to request a £3.9 billion loan from the International Monetary Fund, publicly humiliating Britain and requiring deep public spending cuts that enraged Labour's own supporters.
Exam Focus
Tie the IMF crisis, Winter of Discontent, and devolution failure together as a chain of events explaining why Labour lost credibility — not as separate isolated problems.
Essay Framework
Use PEEL to structure every paragraph. Tap each step for guidance and an example.
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