Heath's government: Heath as leader; political and economic policies; industrial relations and the miners' strikes; the 'troubles' in Northern Ireland, including the Sunningdale Agreement
Edward Heath led a Conservative government from 1970 to 1974. He faced crippling strikes, a collapsing economy, and violent conflict in Northern Ireland — and lost power to all three.
Real World
The Sunningdale Agreement of December 1973 attempted power-sharing in Northern Ireland between unionists and nationalists, but collapsed within months when Ulster loyalist workers launched a general strike that paralysed the province.
Exam Focus
For Heath's government, distinguish between the U-turn on economic policy and Northern Ireland policy — conflating them loses marks on causation questions.
Essay Framework
Use PEEL to structure every paragraph. Tap each step for guidance and an example.
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