Book dossier

The people's rights

by Winston S. Churchill, Cameron Hazlehurst

"This collection of speeches dates from Churchill's election of campaign in December 1909, following the rejection of the People's Budget by the House of Lords and the subsequent dissolution of Parliament. Indeed, Churchill opens by criticising the House of Lords and pleas for a balanced budget, going on to argue for Free Trade and a graduated income tax. Churchill shows a paternalistic yet genuine concern for the plight of the working classes, but abruptly dismisses socialism, clearly advocating a government-operated system of labour exchanges in line with Liberal programmes. Success followed with Churchill re-elected and the 'People's Budget' eventually approved by the House of Lords. However, as the Labour Party grew in popularity, the Liberals began to decline. The People's Rights illustrates Churchill's role at this turning point in British political history."--Bloomsbury Publishing.