National Insurance and Housing Policies
This page explores the expansion of national insurance and the introduction of crucial housing policies in post-World War I Britain, addressing unemployment and housing shortages.
National Insurance
The post-war economic boom was followed by a bust, leading to high unemployment. In response, the government extended national insurance to 12 million people. This policy was based on the assumption that unemployment would be cyclical, limiting the duration of claims.
Highlight: The extension of national insurance was a significant step in developing Britain's social welfare system.
Addison Housing Act 1919
The Addison Housing Act 1919, also known as the Housing and Town Planning Act, was a landmark piece of legislation aimed at improving housing conditions for the working class. Key aspects of the act included:
- Clearance of slums
- Encouragement of low-rent house building for the working class
- Subsidies to councils for housing construction
Quote: Christopher Addison, the Minister of Health, stated: "The Act is designed to secure the provision of houses for the working classes."
However, the implementation of the Act faced challenges:
- The building industry exploited the situation, constructing few houses at inflated prices
- This led to limited success in addressing the housing shortage
Example: Despite the Act's intentions, many working-class families continued to live in substandard housing due to the slow pace of construction and high costs.
The Addison Housing Act 1919 was part of a series of housing reforms in the UK, including:
- Housing of the Working Classes Act, 1890
- Housing, Town Planning, Etc. Act 1909
- Housing Act 1930
- Housing Act 1949
- Housing Act 1980
These acts collectively shaped British housing policies throughout the 20th century, aiming to improve living conditions for the working class and address housing shortages.
