Labour's Initial Success and Healthcare Reforms

The post war Labour PM Clement Attlee led a transformative government that focused on tackling Beveridge's five giants following their landslide victory in 1945. Their primary focus was addressing the widespread destruction from World War II, including 700,000 bombed houses.

The most significant achievement was establishing the National Health Service (NHS) in 1948, which revolutionized healthcare delivery in Britain.

Highlight: The NHS treated 8 million patients and provided 5 million pairs of glasses in its first year alone.

Example: Free healthcare services included doctor visits, hospital care, dental treatment, and optical services.

Quote: Historian Martin Pugh noted that "access to medical services was now based upon need, not ability to pay."

Definition: The 'cradle to grave' support system meant comprehensive welfare coverage from birth to death.

However, the NHS faced financial challenges, with costs reaching £358 million by 1950, far exceeding the planned £134 million budget.