Campaigns Policies and Media

• The Campaign

  Conservatives focussed on Labours mistakes in power. They branded themselves as a power of unity and common sense. Turned down TV debates.

  In reality, neither manifesto was particularly radical, both gave priority to slowing inflation and recovering from the Winter crisis.
• The Media

  Press widely considered to support the Conservatives, arguing Thatcher was a refreshing and positive change.

  Labour had largely negative coverage - 'Crisis, what crisis?' Sun headline.

  Opinion polling showed the Cons a slight lead and many argue this encouraged a higher turnout.