Progressive Party (Scotland) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Progressive Party
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|---|---|
| Founded | Early 20th century |
| Dissolved | Late 1970s |
| Ideology | Anti-Labour co-operation Localism Economic liberalism |
The Progressive Party was a local political group in Scotland. It worked in many Scottish cities and towns during the 1900s. This group brought together different politicians. They included members from the Unionist Party, Scottish Liberals, and independents. Their main goal was to work together against the Labour Party.
Contents
How the Progressive Party Started
In the past, big national political parties usually didn't get involved in local city politics. But then, the Labour Party became very strong. This made local government elections more about political parties.
At first, the Progressive Party was the main group standing against Labour. Other national parties didn't join local elections much yet.
Forming a New Group
The Progressives were a loose group of people. They were unofficial Liberals, Unionists, and independent politicians. They focused on their own cities and towns. But their main goal was to stop the Labour Party. They did not like Labour's ideas or their control. They also wanted to make sure the votes against Labour were not split up. This helped them win more often.
The History of the Progressives
Progressive groups first formed in big cities. One started in Edinburgh in 1928. Another began in Glasgow in 1936. Soon, they spread to other towns and cities across Scotland.
Who Were the Members?
Most members of the Progressive Party were local business people. They were often from the middle class. They did not want the city councils to become too socialist. They also wanted to stop the Labour Party from taking control.
For almost 50 years, the Progressives were very powerful in Scottish local politics. For example, in 1972, the Edinburgh city council had many Progressives. There were 21 Progressives, 9 Conservatives, 33 Labour members, and 5 Liberals.
Why the Party Ended
By the late 1970s, the Progressive Party completely disappeared. More national parties started joining local elections. The Scottish National Party, the Liberal Party, and the Scottish Conservative Party began to run their own candidates. These parties took over the Progressives' role of opposing Labour.
