Social issues: class division; poverty; changes in taxation; the 'People's Budget'; Liberal social and welfare reforms; reasons for legislation and its effect
Edwardian Britain had deep poverty and sharp class divisions. The Liberal governments after 1906 tackled these problems through a series of welfare reforms funded by new taxes on the wealthy.
Real World
Seebohm Rowntree's 1901 study of York found 28% of the city living below the poverty line — evidence Lloyd George cited directly in Parliament to justify the 1909 People's Budget's new supertax on high incomes.
Exam Focus
Always distinguish motives for reform (genuine concern, fear of socialism, national efficiency) from effects — 'assess the importance' questions require both dimensions.
Essay Framework
Use PEEL to structure every paragraph. Tap each step for guidance and an example.
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