Hugh Gaitskill

This biography of Hugh Gaitskell (1906-1963) explores the man, as well as the politician. It draws on material from Cabinet papers released recently, interviews by the author, memoirs and secondary works published in the last decade. It sets out to provide a fresh perspective on a crucial figure in the history of the Labour Party. Gaitskell became the youngest Chancellor of the Exchequer in 1950-51 since Balfour. His introduction of the NHS charges led to the resignation of Aneurin Bevan and the growing hostility of the Labour left, but his ascendence grew and in December 1955 he was elected leader of the opposition. He tried to modify Labour's stance on nationalization from total nationalization to the 'shareholder state' and refused to accept a narrow conference vote for unilateral disarmament in 1960. He died at an early age, his ideas influencing the Labour Party to this day.