Evaluate the impact of the Labour Party on British politics before the First World War.

The question requires candidates to make an appraisal of the impact of the emergence of the Labour Party on British politics prior to 1914, weighing up the strengths and limitations. In 1900, the Labour Representation Committee (LRC) was formed. The LRC made an electoral pact with the Liberals and contributed to the Liberal landslide of 1906. The pact ensured that 29 Labour MPs were elected, who were able to have some influence on Liberal policies. In support of this argument reference could be made to the Trades Disputes Act (1906) and the Workmen’s Compensation Act (1906). However, some might argue that the Liberal government introduced reforms because they did not want to lose working-class votes to Labour and because of the need to improve the health and lives of the population in the national interest. It could be argued that after 1907 the Labour party had limited influence on Liberal reforms. In 1911, there were more than 40 Labour MPs, however they remained the fourth party in the House of Commons with limited impact on politics. Candidates’ opinions or conclusions will be presented clearly and supported by appropriate evidence.

The question required candidates to make an appraisal of the impact of the emergence of the Labour Party on British politics prior to 1914, weighing up the strengths and limitations.