Evaluate the impact of Gladstone’s domestic policies (excluding the Irish Question).

The question requires that candidates make an appraisal of the impact of Gladstone’s major policies within Britain throughout his various ministries. However, candidates may not refer to the Irish Question in their responses unless it is to provide context for the relative importance and/or success of the domestic policies. Some candidates may approach the question in terms of what Gladstone wished to achieve compared to what he achieved, be that in terms of equality of opportunity, or economic and efficient government. Other candidates may approach the question in terms of the impact on Gladstone and the Liberal Party. Major legislation referenced may include Forster’s Education Act (1870), the various army reforms of the ministries, the University Tests Act and civil service reform (both 1871), the Judicature Act (1872), which made the administration of justice more efficient, and the Reform Act (1884) and the Redistribution of Seats Act (1885), the latter two being concerned with equality and efficiency. For those candidates considering the impact on the Liberal Party, areas for evaluation may include the Criminal Law Amendment Act (1871) and the Licensing Act (1872), both of which aroused opposition within the working classes.