Capital Punishment and British Politics: The British Movement to Abolish the Death Penalty 1945-47

Capital Punishment and British Politics, published in 1962, is a case study that examines the passage of the Homicide Act of 1957 through dozens of interviews. It reveals the workings of British politics and assesses the impact of ideas and interests on governmental policy. The book analyzes the legal and historical antecedents of the controversy, traces the development from the attempt to abolish the death penalty to the compromise legislation, and demonstrates how the case contained many of the basic elements and dilemmas of the British political process.

Format: Hardback
Length: 202 pages
Publication date: 08 March 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

First published in 1962, Capital Punishment and British Politics is a seminal work that delves into the intricate process of political decision-making in Britain. Through a comprehensive analysis of the events and activities that culminated in the passage of the Homicide Act of 1957, a significant piece of social legislation, the book sheds light on the complex dynamics of British politics. The author's case study, based on dozens of in-depth interviews, provides a detailed account of the workings of British politics and evaluates the profound impact of the clash of ideas and interests on governmental policy.

In the opening chapter, the author surveys the legal and historical precedents that shaped the controversy surrounding the Act. This includes examining the unsuccessful attempts to abolish the death penalty under the Labour Government and the subsequent rise in murder cases in the early 1950s. The author then traces the development of the Act, from its abortive beginnings to its eventual successful launch under a Conservative Government. Throughout the book, analysis is seamlessly intertwined with vivid description, allowing readers to gain a deep understanding of the political landscape.

The concluding chapter of the book serves as a powerful testament to its significance. It demonstrates how this single case, encapsulating many of the fundamental elements and dilemmas of the British political process, serves as a microcosm of the broader political landscape. The author skillfully weaves together a narrative that encompasses legal, social, and political dimensions, providing a comprehensive analysis of the issues at hand.

Capital Punishment and British Politics is a captivating study that will appeal to students of politics and social legislation across the globe. Its insightful analysis and comprehensive coverage of a pivotal period in British history make it an invaluable resource for scholars and researchers seeking to deepen their understanding of the complex dynamics of political decision-making.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032396743