To what extent was Margret Thatcher's premiership a failure economically?

Margret Thatcher did succesfully tame excessive inflation rates through the use of monetarist polices. However, this came with the oppertunity cost of rising unemployment as well as a shift away from the industrial sector. During Thatcher's premiership coal production fell drastically, reaching the lowest point in 1984 shortly after the battle of Orgreave. Rising unemployment and economic reallignment during this period prevented Britain from achieving a real GDP output which rivalled the previous prosperity of the 50s and 60s.

MB
Answered by Matthew B. History tutor

3030 Views

See similar History A Level tutors

Related History A Level answers

All answers ▸

To what extent was Charles II's reign characterised by short term success but long term failure in the years 1660-1685?


How far do you agree that the government was never seriously endangered by the Prayer Book rebellion of 1549? [Question inspired by the A-Level Topic: Rebellion and disorder under the Tudors]


How much did Mary I's marriage to Prince Philip of Spain influence Britain's foreign policy?


The Pilgrimage of Grace of 1536 was the most threatening Tudor rebellion due to its size. How far do you agree?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning