WHY WAS LABOUR EXCLUDED FROM GOVERNMENTAL POWER BETWEEN 1979-1997?

Many theories have been put forward in an attempt to answer the question why the Labour party lost four elections between 1979 and 1997 and could be put into three categories.  The first being socio-economic which is put forward by Ivor Crewe, arguing that it is due to a shrinkage in the working classes and partisan de-alignment.  The MORI Opinion Polling Organisation shows that between 1979-1987 households defined as middle class rose from 35-42% (Jones et al, 1994: 955). Arguments have also been put forward on how the shift of the Labour parties emphasis on policies and leadership being unpopular were a significant cause in their loss of power.  Moreover, other concerning factors such as the rise of the Social Democratic Party, the Falklands conflict, the Sheffield Conference, and damaging media hype will be discussed here in answer to this question….(short extract)