Harold Wilson Biography

Birth of Harold Wilson

Appointed lecturer in economics at Oxford University, age 21

Appointed lecturer in economics at Oxford University, age 21

First elected to Parliament as Member of Parliament for Ormskirk

Publication of "New Deal for Coal"

Publication of "New Deal for Coal"

Visits Russia to agree an exchange of manufactured goods for grain

Appointed Member of Privy Council

Oversees legislation giving the Board of Trade powers to collect business statistics for economic planning.

Statistics of Trade Act 1947 gives powers to collect business statistics for economic planning

Appointed President of the Board of Trade, first term

Appointed President of the Board of Trade in Clement Attlee's Labour Government.

Becomes the youngest member of the Cabinet in the Twentieth century

Becomes the youngest member of the Cabinet in the twentieth century.

Appointed President of the Board of Trade, first term

Becomes the youngest member of the Cabinet in the Twentieth century

Takes charge of the Board of Trade at the age of thirty one.

Celebrates a "bonfire of controls" by making 200,000 permits & licences unnecessary

Leads a trade mission & agrees to exchange manufactured goods for Russian grain

Oversees company law reform through the Companies Act during Attlee's Labour Government.

Companies Act 1948 consolidates and reforms company law

Reduces the number of licences and permits required by businesses after wartime controls.

Exchange controls are removed, a trade surplus changes to a deficit

Exchange controls are removed, a trade surplus changes to a deficit

Gets the Monopolies Act passed & is responsible for its implementation

The Monopolies Act is passed, sponsored by the Board of Trade

Sponsors legislation creating machinery to investigate monopolies and restrictive trade practices.

Monopolies and Restrictive Practices Inquiry and Control Act 1948 creates machinery to investigate monopolies

Begins removing wartime controls and rationing restrictions in a policy known as the bonfire of controls.

Gets the Monopolies Act passed & is responsible for its implementation

The Monopolies Act is passed, sponsored by the Board of Trade

The Development of Industry Bill is passed, sponsored by the Board of Trade

The Distribution of Industry Bill is passed, sponsored by the Board of Trade

The Export Guarantees Bill is passed, sponsored by the Board of Trade

Ends clothing rationing as wartime controls are progressively removed.

Oversees patent law consolidation and amendment while serving at the Board of Trade.

Patents Act 1949 consolidates and amends patent law

Rations for clothing are abolished

Appointed President of the Board of Trade, 2nd term

In the general election of 1950, his constituency is altered and he is narrowly elected for the new seat of Huyton, Merseyside

Appointed President of the Board of Trade, 2nd term

Registered Designs Act 1950 consolidates law on industrial designs

Becomes chairman of the Keep Left group associated with Bevanite politics.

Resigns with Bevan over the health charges dispute.

Resigns from the Cabinet in protest against health service charges to pay defence

Wilson becomes a left-winger and joins Aneurin Bevan and John Freeman in resigning from the Government in protest at the introduction of National Health Service (NHS) health service charges to meet the financial demands imposed by the Korean War

Wilson becomes a left-winger and joins Aneurin Bevan and John Freeman in resigning from the Government in protest at the introduction of National Health Service (NHS) health service charges to meet the financial demands imposed by the Korean War.

Bevan's resignation from the Shadow Cabinet helps put Wilson back on the front bench as a spokesman, initially, on finance

Heads a subcommittee on the organisation of the Labour Party

Reports that the Labour Party is too centralized. Heads an NEC working group into why Labour had lost the last 2 elections

Heads an NEC working group into why Labour had lost the last 2 elections

At the General Election doubles his majority in Huyton to 2,558

Appointed Shadow Chancellor after Gaitskell wins the leadership election

Decemberides not to stand for the leadership of the Labour Party but to support Gaitskell. At the General Election doubles his majority in Huyton to 2,558

Appointed Shadow Chancellor after Gaitskell wins the leadership election

Challenges Conservative economic policy from the Labour front bench as Shadow Chancellor.

First uses the term, "Gnomes of Zurich"

Appointed Shadow Chancellor

Wilson condemns the Anglo-French intervention during a Labour meeting in Birmingham.

Argues that Eden's Suez policy damages Britain's standing as Soviet forces crush the Hungarian uprising

Wilson finds strong support in Birmingham for Labour's opposition to the Suez intervention.

Attacks the Government over the financial and diplomatic consequences of the Suez adventure

Argues for planned economic expansion and criticises Conservative reliance on market discipline.

Continues Labour attacks on Conservative financial policy during a period of pressure on sterling.

Appointed Chairman of the Public Accounts Committee

At the General Election doubles his majority in Huyton to 5,927

Campaigns as Labour's senior economic spokesman during the general election.

At the General Election doubles his majority in Huyton to 5,927

Gaitskell accepts Wilson's Clause IV reform of the Labour Party for "common ownership". Describes reforming Clause IV as "taking Genesis out of the Bible"

Clause IV, supporting "common ownership"

Clause IV, "common ownership"

Contests the party leadership, wins 81 votes to Gaitskell's 166

Challenges Hugh Gaitskell for the Labour leadership and wins 81 votes against Gaitskell's 166.

His challenge reveals deep Labour divisions after the 1959 general election defeat.

Receives support from Labour MPs critical of Gaitskell's stance on nuclear disarmament.

Remains on the Labour front bench after Gaitskell is re-elected leader of the party.

Stands as the left-wing challenger to Hugh Gaitskell in the Labour leadership ballot.

Wins 81 votes in the only ballot but fails to remove Hugh Gaitskell as party leader.

Unsuccessfully contests the deputy leadership of the party, defeated by George Brown. Appointed Shadow Foreign Secretary after the leadership election

Prepares the economic section of the Labour manifesto, "Signpost for the Sixties". Calls for raising the school leaving age to 16. Calls for capital gains tax, nationalization of building land & public schools. Calls for a national economic plan

Calls for capital gains tax, nationalization of building land & public schools

Appointed Shadow Foreign Secretary after the leadership election

Appointed Shadow Foreign Secretary after changes to Labour's front-bench team.

Speaks for Labour on foreign affairs while the party debates defence, Europe and decolonisation.

1st ballot for the party leadership, Wilson wins 115, Brown 88 & Callaghan 41 votes

Goes on a lecture tour of the United States

Appointed Party Leader of the Labour Party

Decemberides to stand for leadership of the Labour Party after the death of Hugh Gaitskell

Decides to stand for the Labour leadership after the death of Hugh Gaitskell.

Wins the first leadership ballot with 115 votes against George Brown's 88 and James Callaghan's 41.

Wins the second leadership ballot against George Brown and becomes Leader of the Labour Party.

Speech about the "white heat" of scientific revolution

Advocates policy of supporting science & technology for the future of Britain

A run on the pound causes Wilson to ask Johnson for an International Monetary Fund loan, Johnson is non-committal

Convinces the US that a labour Government would not be anti US

A sterling crisis. Cromer, Governor of the Bank of England, raises $3,000 million to protect sterling

Wilson founds the Central Statistical Office

A run on the pound causes Wilson to ask Johnson for an International Monetary Fund loan, Johnson is non-committal

A National Opinion Poll shows Wilson with a commanding lead, 71% "brilliant". Launches a campaign in the Spring, convinced there will be a general election in May

Campaigns to return Labour to government after thirteen years in opposition.

Presents Labour as a modernising party committed to science, planning and economic renewal.

The EFTA objection to import surcharges convinces Wilson Britain needs to join the EC. Imposes import tax on everything except food, raw materials & tobacco

Visits the USA & addresses the Chamber of Commerce. Visits Kennedy, differences on nuclear weapons but supports the Nassau agreement

Maintains support for the US alliance while refusing to send British troops to Vietnam

Announces an immediate ban on arms shipments to South Africa

Wilson & Walker visit Khrushchev & reach a "friendly understanding" except for Berlin

A National Opinion Poll shows Wilson with a commanding lead, 71% "brilliant"

Lays out a programme for Parliament including further nationalization

The Labour Party wins the general election by 4 seats. The Labour Party wins 44.1 percent of votes cast & 317 MPs

Is re-elected as Member of Parliament for Huyton while leading Labour to national victory.

Defeats Alec Douglas-Home's Conservatives and ends thirteen years of Conservative government.

Leads Labour to 317 Commons seats against 304 for the Conservatives and 9 for the Liberals.

Leads Labour to a narrow general election victory.

Appointed Prime Minister of Great Britain, first term

A sterling crisis

Airports Authority Act 1965 creates the British Airports Authority

Writes to Pompidou saying investment in Concorde is a luxury

Wilson's advisers Patrick Blackett and Thomas Balogh advise him to create the DEA. The DEA will undertake long-term planning of the economy and industry, while the Treasury would determine short-term revenue raising and financial management. The DEA is tasked with the preparation of a National Plan for the economy published in September 1965. The Department for Economic Affairs is established under George Brown

Writes to Pompidou saying investment in Concorde is a luxury

With a majority of 1 & by-election pending wins the Territorial & Reserve Forces Bill

The OAU calls members to break with Britain if Smith's regime is not brought down

The OAU calls members to break with Britain if Smith's regime is not brought down

The Race Relations Act outlaws discrimination & establishes a Race Relations Board

The Rent Act fixes fair rents for private tenants & provides security of tenure. The Redundancy Payments Act provides payments of workers who are made redundant. The Race Relations Act outlaws racial discrimination. The Race Relations Act establishes a Race Relations Board

Murder Abolition of Death Penalty Act 1965 suspends capital punishment for murder in Great Britain

Launches oil sanctions against Rhodesia for declaring UDI

Race Relations Act 1965 creates the first British statutory controls against racial discrimination

Redundancy Payments Act 1965 creates statutory redundancy payments for qualifying employees

With a majority of 1 & by-election pending wins the Territorial & Reserve Forces Bill

The Rent Act fixes fair rents for private tenants & provides security of tenure. The Redundancy Payments Act provides payments of workers who are made redundant. The Race Relations Act outlaws racial discrimination. The Race Relations Act establishes a Race Relations Board

Rent Act 1965 reforms rent control and creates machinery for fair rent regulation

Launches oil sanctions against Rhodesia for declaring UDI. Falsely predicts Ian Smith's downfall as a result of sanctions

Launches oil sanctions against Rhodesia for declaring UDI

With a majority of 1 & by-election pending wins the Territorial & Reserve Forces Bill

Labour loses with an 8.7 percent swing to the Conservatives, produces political instability

Labour's National Plan is published

In a broadcast rules out military intervention if Rhodesia declares UDI

In a broadcast rules out military intervention if Rhodesia declares UDI

In a broadcast rules out military intervention if Rhodesia declares UDI

Abolition of capital punishment

Rhodesia declares Unilateral Declaration of Independence

Rhodesia declares Unilateral Declaration of Independence

Condemns Rhodesia's unilateral declaration of independence and refuses recognition of Ian Smith's illegal regime.

Announces economic sanctions after Rhodesia's illegal declaration of independence.

Britain supports Security Council Resolution 216 calling on states not to recognise the Rhodesian minority regime.

Security Council Resolution 217 condemns Rhodesia's illegal authority and calls for no diplomatic or economic relations.

The Southern Rhodesia Petroleum Order comes into force as Britain tightens sanctions against Rhodesia.

The body of Roger Casement is returned to Ireland

Sterling crisis followed by a period of deflation. The Daily Express is cleared of acting against the national interest. Says a Daily Express article threatens security as defined by the D-Notice

Visits Aberfan where a collapsed pit mound killed 116 schoolchildren at their school

Visits the Isles of Scilly to lead clean up the oil spillage from the Torrey Canyon

Pompidou says Britain will have to devalue before being considered for EEC membership

The Government majority falls to 4 when Labour loses the Leyton by-election

On the Tiger offers Smith deferral of majority rule for a decade & legalizing Rhodesia. Holds talks on HMS Tiger with Ian Smith to discuss the future of Rhodesia

Rhodesia rejects terms offered on board the HMS Tiger by Harold Wilson

On the Tiger offers Smith deferral of majority rule for a decade & legalizing Rhodesia. Holds talks on HMS Tiger with Ian Smith to discuss the future of Rhodesia

Rhodesia rejects terms offered on board the HMS Tiger by Harold Wilson

Industrial Development Act 1966 creates regional development grants and support powers

Local Government Act 1966 changes local government finance, grants, and administration

Ministry of Social Security Act 1966 reorganises social security administration

Prices and Incomes Act 1966 supports government policy on wages, prices, and incomes control

Appointed Prime Minister of Great Britain, 2nd term

Selective Employment Payments Act 1966 creates payments connected with selective employment tax

The strike causes a run on the pound

The Government reviews Britain's remaining defence commitments east of Suez in response to economic pressure.

Labour wins a by-election in Hull with a 4.5 percent swing in favour of the Government

Begins work on, "Time for Decemberision"

Britain agrees to United Nations resolution to find a "peaceful solution to the problem"

The Government announces that British forces will withdraw from Aden as part of the defence review.

The Defence Review sets out plans to reduce overseas commitments while retaining a limited East of Suez role.

Announces a general election for the 31st of March in order to win a working majority

first day of the election campaign, Labour have a 9% lead in the polls

Rules out sending British troops to fight in Vietnam

The Labour Party wins 48 percent of votes cast & 364 MPs. Labour wins with 363 seats to 253 Tory, 12 Liberal & 2 others, a majority of 97

The Queen's Speech includes the nationalization of steel

The Queen's Speech includes the nationalization of steel

Summons the seamen's leaders to Downing St to avert a strike but the strike continues

A state of emergency is declared in response to the seamen's strike

The Abortion Bill passes its second reading

The Abortion Bill passes its second reading

Denis Healey faces Commons questions on reducing Britain's military commitment east of Suez.

The strike comes to an end when payscales are agreed

Brown is moved to the Foreign Office & Stewart takes over at the DEA

Sterling crisis followed by a period of deflation

The Prices & Incomes Bill is published. Companies & Unions must give advance warning of any wage or price increases

The Sexual Offences Bill, legalizing homosexuality, passes its second reading

It is announced that British forces will withdraw from Suez by the mid 70s

Surtax introduced & public investments cut. Incomes & prices are frozen for 6 months. HP controls are tightened, indirect taxes & post office charges raised. Announces a package of cuts in the House of Commons, in preference to devaluation

Produces a deflationary package to stabilise the pound

Launches a 6 month freeze on prices & wages

The Act provides statutory powers to restrain wage and price increases.

The Commonwealth Conference at Lagos attacks Wilson's handling of Rhodesia's UDI

The Commonwealth Conference at Lagos attacks Wilson's handling of Rhodesia's UDI

Wilson agrees to recognise Ian Smith & negotiate with him. OAU countries will break off relations if Smith's regime is not broken by December

Wilson agrees to recognise Ian Smith & negotiate with him. OAU countries will break off relations if Smith's regime is not broken by December

OAU will sever relations with Britain if Smith's regime is not broken by December

The Commonwealth Conference at Lagos attacks Wilson's handling of Rhodesia's UDI

Strikes against redundancies close all British Motor Corporation factories

The Labour Government announces its intention to make a second application to join the EEC

Talks to resolve the Rhodesia UDI break down

Talks to resolve the Rhodesia UDI break down

Talks to resolve the Rhodesia UDI break down

Abortion Act 1967 legalises abortion in specified medical circumstances

Britain cancels the F111A order from the USA

The Government publishes a White Paper to make defence cuts east of Suez

Wilson takes over the DEA & Shore appointed Secretary of State

Appoints a Parliamentary Committee of 10 to give the Government a more direction

Credit restrictions on consumer durable purchases are eased to prevent economic activity from weakening too sharply.

Criminal Law Act 1967 abolishes the distinction between felonies and misdemeanours

Leasehold Reform Act 1967 gives many long leasehold house tenants rights to buy the freehold

During Harold Wilson's government, the first successful treatment for rhesus disease of the newborn is achieved.

The Labour Party Government is in office as this NHS milestone occurs: The first successful treatment for rhesus disease of the newborn is achieved.

This NHS development occurs while Harold Wilson serves as Prime Minister: The first successful treatment for rhesus disease of the newborn is achieved.

Road Safety Act 1967 introduces the breathalyser and drink driving controls

Sexual Offences Act 1967 partially decriminalises homosexual acts between men in private in England and Wales

Meets Alexei Kosygin during an attempted Vietnam peace initiative

Kosygin visits Wilson in Britain to discuss the Vietnam War

A curfew is imposed in Aden after nationalist riots

Bank Rate is reduced to 6 percent as the balance of payments position temporarily improves.

Registered unemployment rises to about 631000 after the previous year's deflationary measures.

The Iron and Steel Act receives Royal Assent, enabling major steel companies to return to public ownership.

The Iron and Steel Act receives Royal Assent, providing for the renationalization of the British steel industry.

first day of the Anglo-Maltese conference to discuss British withdrawal

first day of the Anglo-Maltese conference to discuss British withdrawal

first day of the Anglo-Maltese conference to discuss British withdrawal

James Callaghan presents a cautious Budget intended to preserve economic stability while sterling remains vulnerable.

Bank Rate is reduced to 5.5 percent as the Government cautiously relaxes credit conditions.

The British Steel Corporation is formed as major steel companies are brought into public ownership.

The people of Gibraltar vote to remain British

The people of Gibraltar vote to remain British

The Abortion Bill is passed by Parliament

The Abortion Bill is passed by Parliament

The Abortion Bill is passed by Parliament

The pound is devalued by 14 percent from $2.80 to $2.40

The pound sterling is devalued by 14 percent from $2.80 to $2.40

The official exchange rate is reduced from 2.80 dollars to 2.40 dollars for one pound sterling.

The pound is devalued from $2.80 to $2.40

The Government devalues sterling after continuing pressure on reserves and a serious balance of payments crisis.

Wilson explains devaluation to the public and argues that the domestic value of money has not fallen by the same proportion.

International financial support of about 1.4 billion pounds is arranged after the devaluation of sterling.

Roy Jenkins becomes Chancellor of the Exchequer with responsibility for stabilising sterling at its new exchange rate.

Clean Air Act 1968 extends smoke control and air pollution measures

The Falkland Islands Committee in Parliament stressing "wishes of the Islanders"

The Falkland Islands Committee in Parliament stressing "wishes of the Islanders"

Agrees a "Memorandum of Understanding" to transfer sovereignty

During Harold Wilson's government, donald Ross carries out the first heart transplant in the UK at the National Heart Hospital in London.

The Labour Party Government is in office as this NHS milestone occurs: Donald Ross carries out the first heart transplant in the UK at the National Heart Hospital in London.

This NHS development occurs while Harold Wilson serves as Prime Minister: Donald Ross carries out the first heart transplant in the UK at the National Heart Hospital in London.

During Harold Wilson's government, professor Sir Roy Calne performs Europe's first liver transplant at Addenbrooke's Hospital in Cambridge.

The Labour Party Government is in office as this NHS milestone occurs: Professor Sir Roy Calne performs Europe's first liver transplant at Addenbrooke's Hospital in Cambridge.

This NHS development occurs while Harold Wilson serves as Prime Minister: Professor Sir Roy Calne performs Europe's first liver transplant at Addenbrooke's Hospital in Cambridge.

During Harold Wilson's government, the measles vaccine is introduced.

The Labour Party Government is in office as this NHS milestone occurs: The measles vaccine is introduced.

This NHS development occurs while Harold Wilson serves as Prime Minister: The measles vaccine is introduced.

The Government continues statutory controls over prices and pay as part of its attempt to contain inflation.

Race Relations Act 1968 strengthens anti discrimination law in housing, employment, and public services

Agrees a "Memorandum of Understanding" to transfer sovereignty

Theatres Act 1968 abolishes stage censorship by the Lord Chamberlain

Trade Descriptions Act 1968 creates offences for false or misleading trade descriptions

Transport Act 1968 restructures transport industries and creates passenger transport authorities

British Prime Minister Harold Wilson endorses the I'm Backing Britain campaign for working an additional half hour each day without pay

The Government accelerates withdrawal from military commitments east of Suez to reduce future defence costs.

The planned increase in the school leaving age is postponed to reduce short-term public expenditure.

The Government announces the restoration of prescription charges as part of its public expenditure programme.

The Government announces major expenditure reductions to redirect resources toward exports and defend the devalued pound.

British Foreign Secretary George Brown resigns

Roy Jenkins presents a severe Budget raising approximately 923 million pounds in additional taxation.

Duties on petrol, tobacco and alcoholic drinks are increased to raise revenue and restrict consumption.

Family allowances are increased while child tax allowances are reduced to redirect assistance toward families with children.

Purchase tax rates are increased as part of a fiscal package designed to reduce consumer spending.

The Budget raises Selective Employment Tax by 50 percent to restrain domestic demand and encourage exports.

A one-off special charge on higher personal incomes is introduced as part of the post-devaluation programme.

The Government secures further international financial support while seeking to rebuild confidence in sterling.

Finance Act 1968 gives statutory effect to the main taxation measures announced in the March Budget.

The TUC rejects Statutory Incomes Policy & approves voluntary wage restraint

The TUC rejects Statutory Incomes Policy & approves voluntary wage restraint

Holds talks with Ian Smith about Rhodesia on board HMS Fearless at Gibraltar

Holds talks with Ian Smith about Rhodesia on board HMS Fearless at Gibraltar

The Transport Act receives Royal Assent, reorganising state transport bodies and extending public control of transport services.

Anti War demonstrations are held in London

Renewed pressure on sterling leads to an additional fiscal package intended to remove about 250 million pounds from demand.

The Anglo-Rhodesian talks in Salisbury end in deadlock

The Anglo-Rhodesian talks in Salisbury end in deadlock

Rumours of coalition Government & abdication of the Queen cause stock market panic. Rumours of coalition Government & abdication cause stock market panic

Rumours of coalition Government & abdication of the Queen cause stock market panic

Rumours of coalition Government & abdication cause stock market panic

Spain closes the border with Gibraltar after the latter is given self-Government

Children and Young Persons Act 1969 reforms juvenile justice and child care powers

Northern Ireland will not leave the UK without the consent of its Parliament

The Treasury was able to claw back its power and the Department of Economic Affairs had become moribund long before it was wound up in 1969

Divorce Reform Act 1969 introduces irretrievable breakdown as the basis for divorce

Family Law Reform Act 1969 lowers the age of majority from twenty one to eighteen

Post Office Act 1969 changes the Post Office from a government department into a public corporation

Representation of the People Act 1969 lowers the voting age to eighteen

Northern Ireland will not leave the UK without the consent of its Parliament

The National Bus Company begins operation under the transport reorganisation created by the Transport Act.

The National Freight Corporation begins operation as part of the Labour Government's public transport reorganisation

The Government issues "In Place of Strife: A Policy For Industrial Relations"

The first prototype of the Concorde makes its maiden flight

Roy Jenkins presents another restrictive Budget with taxation increases of approximately 340 million pounds.

Britain records an improving current account position as exports rise and domestic consumption remains restrained.

The Government reports a substantial rise in foreign currency reserves during the first half of the year.

Finance Act 1969 implements further tax changes intended to restrain demand and strengthen the external accounts.

Sends in the Army after a peaceful civil rights demonstration which is broken

Rioting besets Belfast for three days, 8 Catholics are killed and two hundred thirty-six people wounded, the British sent in the army in an effort to keep order in Northern Ireland

Sends in the Army after a peaceful civil rights demonstration which is broken

Rioting besets Belfast for three days, 8 Catholics are killed and two hundred thirty-six people wounded, the British sent in the army in an effort to keep order in Northern Ireland

Chronically Sick and Disabled Persons Act 1970 creates duties and rights for disabled people

Education Handicapped Children Act 1970 transfers responsibility for disabled childrens education to education authorities

Equal Pay Act 1970 creates legal rights to equal pay between men and women

Local Authority Social Services Act 1970 creates social services departments in local authorities

Establishes the Select Committee on National Expenditure

Taxes Management Act 1970 consolidates tax administration and collection law

The Government revises rules for pay increases & ends the statutory incomes policy

Income and Corporation Taxes Act 1970 consolidates legislation governing income tax and corporation tax.

Roy Jenkins presents a cautious Budget after the balance of payments has moved into surplus.

The Labour Party wins 43.1 percent of votes cast & 288 MPs. The Labour majority of 97 becomes a Conservative majority of 39

Labour turn a Tory majority of 10,874 to a Labour majority of 1,868

Wilson proposes unification of Ireland within 15 years

Develops closer links with the TUC while Labour prepares an alternative to Conservative incomes policy.

Arms export licences & aid to Chile are cancelled

England and France agree to build 16 Concorde airplanes

Consumer Credit Act 1974 regulates consumer credit, hire agreements, and licensing

Control of Pollution Act 1974 reforms waste, water pollution, noise, and environmental controls

The National Economic Board publishes, "The Regeneration of British Industry". Proposes to increase centrally planned investment through the National Enterprise Board

Postpones the election from June to October

Proposes the National Enterprise Board, prior to the Octoberober election

Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974 creates the modern framework for workplace health and safety

Housing Act 1974 reforms housing action areas, improvement grants, and housing associations

The National Economic Board publishes, "The Regeneration of British Industry". Reverses the Industrial Relations Act of the Conservative Government

Proposes the National Enterprise Board, prior to the Octoberober election

Plans for the NEB are outlined in the 1974 White Paper The Regeneration of British Industry

Relies on voluntary union cooperation rather than statutory pay controls.

The National Economic Board publishes, "The Regeneration of British Industry". Reverses the Industrial Relations Act of the Conservative Government

The government relies on the Social Contract with the TUC to link wage restraint with social reform.

Presents the Social Contract as a partnership between government and organised labour.

Sunningdale collapses following the Ulster Workers Council Strike, which cut water and electricity supplies to many homes

Trade Union and Labour Relations Act 1974 repeals much of the Industrial Relations Act and restores union immunities

The RPI shows that food prices had risen by 20 percent over the last year. Labour 301, Conservatives 296 & others 37

Promises a referendum after renegotiating European Community membership.

Wilson compares himself to Cromwell prior to Marston Moor

Wilson wins is 3rd election out of 4. The Labour Party wins 37.2 percent of votes cast & 301 MPs. No party can form a majority even with the support of the Liberals

The February election produces a hung parliament and leads to a Labour minority government.

Calls his Cabinet, "the most experienced & talented this century"

Founds the Policy Unit, Wilson's "eyes & ears"

Appointed Prime Minister of Great Britain, 3rd term

Wilson forms a Labour government committed to a Social Contract with the trade unions.

Returns to office promising a different relationship with organised labour.

The miners strike is brought to an end by agreeing to their terms

The 3 day week & the state of emergency ends

The 3 day week & the state of emergency ends

Says he will call an election if the opposition makes it impossible to govern

Wilson announces his resignation

Denis Healey presents the Government's first Budget after Labour returns to office.

The Government announces capital transfer tax to replace estate duty and tax lifetime transfers.

The Government uses food subsidies as part of its policy to protect household living standards.

The Budget raises direct taxation as part of an emergency response to inflation and borrowing.

The Government maintains price controls and subsidies while seeking agreement on wage restraint.

1st visit to Ulster, asseses power sharing, the extent of terrorism & local support

Makes a report to the Commons about the IRAs intentions to take over parts of Belfast

Government record concerning the IRA: Makes a report to the Commons about the IRAs intentions to take over parts of Belfast

Historical IRA record under Labour Party Government: Makes a report to the Commons about the IRAs intentions to take over parts of Belfast

IRA context for Harold Wilson: Makes a report to the Commons about the IRAs intentions to take over parts of Belfast

Government record concerning the IRA: Makes a report to the Commons about the IRAs intentions to take over parts of Belfast

Historical IRA record under Labour Party Government: Makes a report to the Commons about the IRAs intentions to take over parts of Belfast

IRA context for Harold Wilson: Makes a report to the Commons about the IRAs intentions to take over parts of Belfast

Makes a report to the Commons about the IRAs intentions to take over parts of Belfast

The Ulster Workers Union will strike if the North Ireland Assembly supports Sunningdale

The Ulster Workers Union will strike if the North Ireland Assembly supports Sunningdale

The Ulster Workers Union calls for a total stoppage in Northern Ireland

The Ulster Workers Union calls for a total stoppage in Northern Ireland

The Ulster Workers Union calls for a total stoppage in Northern Ireland

Northern Ireland is brought under direct rule from Westminster

Ecevit asks Britain to support the Turkish invasion of Cyprus, no support is given

Ecevit asks Britain to support the Turkish invasion of Cyprus, no support is given

Healey announces further economic measures as inflation, borrowing and industrial costs remain under pressure.

Re-establishes collective bargaining as the central mechanism for regulating industrial relations.

Parliament adjourns for the last time until the election Octoberober 10

Parliament adjourns for the last time until the election Octoberober 10

Provides rules for employers associations alongside the law governing trade unions.

Finance Act 1974 receives Royal Assent, implementing tax changes from Healey's first Budget.

Repeals Edward Heath's Industrial Relations Act and restores Labour's preferred voluntary industrial relations framework.

Maintains industrial tribunals as the forum for key employment disputes after repeal of the 1971 Act.

Abolishes the National Industrial Relations Court created under the Conservative industrial relations system.

Restores statutory immunities for trade unions acting in contemplation or furtherance of trade disputes.

Trade Union and Labour Relations Act 1974 receives Royal Assent, repealing the Industrial Relations Act 1971.

Restores a legal framework recognising trade unions and employers associations outside the 1971 registration system.

The general election date is announced for October 10

Appointed Prime Minister of Great Britain, 4th term

Wins the October election while relying on continued union cooperation.

Healey presents a second 1974 Budget after Labour wins a narrow majority in the October election.

The Budget package includes energy conservation measures after the oil shock and pressure on imports.

Two bombs explode in Birmingham pubs, killing twenty-one people and injuring many others.

Wilson condemns the Birmingham attacks and supports urgent counterterrorism legislation.

The Irish Republican Army is outlawed in Britain following deaths of 21, IRA bombs in British pubs killed 28 and wounded over 200 in the last 2 months

Government record concerning the IRA: The Irish Republican Army is outlawed in Britain following deaths of 21, IRA bombs in British pubs killed 28 and wounded over 200 in the last 2 months

Historical IRA record under Labour Party Government: The Irish Republican Army is outlawed in Britain following deaths of 21, IRA bombs in British pubs killed 28 and wounded over 200 in the last 2 months

IRA context for Harold Wilson: The Irish Republican Army is outlawed in Britain following deaths of 21, IRA bombs in British pubs killed 28 and wounded over 200 in the last 2 months

Attends EC Summit where "the British problem" & the "European Council" are discussed

Attends EC Summit where "the British problem" & the "European Council" are discussed

Community Land Act 1975 creates powers for public acquisition and control of development land

Employment Protection Act 1975 creates new employment protections and workplace rights

The Ryder Reportt reports on British Leyland & proposes 3 billion pounds investment over 3 years

A White Paper offers the Scots a Legislative Assembly but without economic powers

A White Paper offers the Scots a Legislative Assembly but without economic powers

By the time that the NEB was set up under the 1975 Industry Act its remit had been modified. Its primary role was now that of providing funds for industrial investment.

Industry Act 1975 creates the National Enterprise Board and industrial support powers

It also had the specific roles of promoting the rationalisation of firms within particular sectors of industry, with stimulating the growth of exports and in assisting the development of small companies

The Industry Act gains impetus by the socialist economist Stuart Holland and the growing desire among Labour's left-wing to fulfil the promise contained in Clause IV of the Party's constitution for social ownership of the economy.

Britain's Sex Discrimination Act is passed, the Act of the Parliament of the United Kingdom is designed to protect men, women and transgendered people from discrimination on the grounds of gender

By the time that the NEB was set up under the 1975 Industry Act its remit had been modified. Its primary role was now that of providing funds for industrial investment. It also had the specific roles of promoting the rationalisation of firms within particular sectors of industry, with stimulating the growth of exports and in assisting the development of small companies

Frames pay restraint as a temporary necessity to control inflation.

Wilson rejects Treasury proposals for a statutory pay policy and keeps the voluntary approach.

The Ryder Reportt reports on British Leyland & proposes 3 billion pounds investment over 3 years

Britain's Sex Discrimination Act is passed, the Act of the Parliament of the United Kingdom is designed to protect men, women and transgendered people from discrimination on the grounds of gender

The Ryder Reportt reports on British Leyland & proposes 3 billion pounds investment over 3 years

Sex Discrimination Act 1975 creates legal protection against sex discrimination

Wilson links pay restraint with social benefits and subsidies under the Social Contract.

Balances wage restraint with subsidies, employment rights and trade union legislation.

Social Security Pensions Act 1975 creates the State Earnings Related Pension Scheme

Social Security Pensions Act 1975 links pensions and some benefits more closely to earnings.

OPEC agrees to a 10 percent increase in the price of crude oil, triggers huge inflation

OPEC agrees to a 10 percent increase in the price of crude oil, triggers huge inflation

Announces for the first time in the Commons a referendum will be held on EEC membership

Announces that collective Cabinet responsibility will be relaxed

Announces for the first time in the Commons a referendum will be held on EEC membership

A "financial mechanism" is agreed to prevent Britain from paying the EC too much

Reports renegotiated European Community terms before the membership referendum.

Finance Act 1975 establishes capital transfer tax on chargeable transfers.

Finance Act 1975 receives Royal Assent, altering duties and public revenue law.

Cabinet votes in favour of the "yes" vote by 16 to 7. Cabinet votes in favour of holding the referendum

Social Security Act 1975 consolidates national insurance contributions and benefit provisions.

Unemployment reaches one million, intensifying criticism of the Government's economic management.

The Commons votes by 396 to 170 to stay in the EEC

Healey presents a crisis Budget as inflation rises and unemployment worsens.

The Budget raises the basic rate of income tax from 33 percent to 35 percent.

Addresses the NEC Conference on Europe but it votes 2 to 1 to stay out of Europe

The Government advances child benefit legislation as part of family income support reform.

Holds the referendum in which voters choose to remain in the European Communities.

The British population agrees to European Common Market membership

Leads the government during the referendum in which Jenkins campaigns for continued membership.

There is 64.5 percent turnout, 17.4 million vote for continued membership and 8.5 million against membership

The pound falls 27.6 percent against a basket of currencies. A "no panic" speech indicates complacency

The Government accepts a six pound weekly limit for pay settlements in the next pay round.

Announces the Government's anti-inflation policy

Announces the Government's anti-inflation policy

Announces the need to legislate for statutory pay limits in the Commons

Announces the Attack on Inflation policy with a flat weekly pay limit.

Announces the Attack on Inflation programme tied to the Social Contract.

The Government defends the six pound pay limit as central to reducing inflation.

The pay policy passes through the Commons by 327 votes to 269.

The Bill for controlling inflation & pay increases receives the Royal Assent

The Declaration covers human rights

The Bill for controlling inflation & pay increases receives the Royal Assent

Accepts principles on sovereign equality, territorial integrity and the peaceful settlement of disputes.

Endorses provisions on economic, scientific, technological and environmental cooperation.

Joins Western and Eastern leaders in using the CSCE process to support détente in Europe.

Signs the Helsinki Final Act for the United Kingdom at the close of the CSCE summit.

Supports human rights and fundamental freedoms as part of the Helsinki settlement.

The Declaration establishes the Conference on Security & Co-operation in Europe. The Declaration covers human rights

Inflation peaks at about 26.9 percent as the Government seeks support for pay restraint.

Proposes a Public Accounts Committee for the European Parliament to control expenditure

Establishes ACAS as a statutory body for conciliation, arbitration and improvement of industrial relations.

The Government creates a state oil corporation to increase public control over North Sea petroleum.

Provides protection for employees owed wages, holiday pay or pension contributions when employers become insolvent.

Creates machinery for promoting better industrial relations between employers, workers and trade unions.

Industry Act 1975 extends selective financial assistance and public intervention powers in industry.

Industry Act 1975 receives Royal Assent, creating the National Enterprise Board and industrial support powers.

Introduces statutory maternity pay provisions within the Employment Protection Act.

Creates statutory maternity protections including rights connected with pregnancy and confinement.

The National Enterprise Board is established to take public equity stakes and support industrial regeneration.

The National Enterprise Board is set up to implement the Wilson Labour Government's objective of extending public ownership of industry. Legislation for National Enterprise Board & Planning Agreements is given Royal assent

The petroleum legislation creates a National Oil Account linked to public control of oil resources.

Petroleum and Submarine Pipe-lines Act 1975 receives Royal Assent, establishing the British National Oil Corporation.

Industry Act 1975 provides for planning agreements between government and major manufacturing companies.

Allows complaints and protective awards where employers fail to consult trade unions over redundancies.

Places duties on employers to consult trade union representatives over proposed redundancies.

Amends workplace safety law to support the appointment of safety representatives through recognised trade unions.

Employment Protection Act 1975 receives Royal Assent as a major employment rights measure of the Social Contract period.

Sees the Employment Protection Act receive Royal Assent.

Strengthens employee protection against unfair dismissal through the employment tribunal system.

The Government is forced to invest GBP 184 million to prevent Chrysler leaving the UK

Leaves office after the first phase of voluntary pay restraint is established.

Publication of "The Governance of Britain"

Argentina ousts a British envoy in dispute over the Falkland Islands

Argentina ousts a British envoy in dispute over the Falkland Islands

The supersonic Concorde jet is put into service by Britain and France

Britain slashes welfare spending

Britain slashes welfare spending as the Government announces major public expenditure reductions.

The British pound falls below the equivalent of $2 for the first time

Britain gives up on the Ulster talks and decides to retain rule in Northern Ireland indefinitely

Healey defends the Public Expenditure White Paper and plans to level off spending after April 1977.

39 of the left abstain in the Commons on the motion for further cuts

Passes a vote of confidence in the Commons after defeated motion the previous day

Announces his resignation with the Social Contract already under pressure.

Trade Union and Labour Relations Amendment Act 1976 receives Royal Assent before Wilson leaves office.

Amends the 1974 trade union legislation to adjust provisions on trade disputes and union legal immunities.

Created Sir Harold Wilson as a Knight of the Garter

Publication of "A Prime Minister on Prime Minister's"

Publication of "The Chariot of Israel"

Created Baron Wilson of Rievaulx as a life peer

Publication of "Memoirs: the making of a Prime Minister 1916-1964"