2. Old and New Liberalism Henry Campbell-Bannerman.
Believed in Laissez Faire government.
Winston Churchill
David Lloyd George
Both men believed the government could do more
to help the poorest in society.

3. Background to the Reforms
In 1906 the Liberals won the election with a landslide victory. They had an overall majority of 356 seats in Parliament – this meant they could pass any laws they liked.
By 1906 society was increasingly aware of the causes and effects of poverty due to the investigations of Booth and Rowntree.

4. Background to the Reforms
In the 1906 election Labour had won 29 seats in Parliament. The Liberals were aware they had to attract working class votes to stay in power.
The Liberals introduced a number of reforms to tackle the key causes of poverty – unemployment, sickness, old age and low wages.

5. 1908 – A Turning Point
Campbell- Bannerman resigned and was replaced by Asquith.
New Liberals appointed to the Cabinet – Churchill and Lloyd George.
Both men were aware of the growing threat of the Labour party, concerned about national efficiency and impressed by Germany’s example.