Political history of the United Kingdom (1979–present)

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The modern political history of the United Kingdom (1979–present) began when Margaret Thatcher gained power in 1979, giving rise to 18 years of Conservative government. Victory in the Falklands War (1982) and the government's strong opposition to trade unions helped lead the Conservative Party to another three terms in government. Thatcher initially pursued monetarist policies and went on to privatise many of Britain's nationalised companies such as British Telecom, British Gas Corporation, British Airways and British Steel Corporation. She kept the National Health Service. The controversial "poll tax" to fund local government was unpopular, and eventually led to a leadership challenge triggered by Michael Heseltine. Thatcher initially intended to fight the leadership election to the end, but eventually stepped down as party leader, having failed to accrue enough support to win. She was succeeded by the eventual winner, John Major. Thatcher's successor, John Major, replaced the "poll tax...

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