The Causes and Consequences of Parliamentary Reform (1830-1867)

Causes of Parliamentary Reform (1830-1867)

The pressure of public opinion marked by large-scale demonstrations, petitions and public meetings was pivotal in urging parliament to implement reform.
Chartism, a working-class movement, played a role by demanding political reforms like universal male suffrage and secret ballot.
Eventual reforms were, in part, a response to avoid potential revolution. The lessons learnt from the French Revolution and the Revolution of 1848 were fresh in mind.
The rapid social and economic changes brought about by the Industrial Revolution meant that the parliamentary system, largely unchanged since the 17th century, was out of touch.
The Great Reform Act of 1832 highlighted the need for continued reform. Its limitations drove further calls for change, with demand for a more representative system of government.

The 1832 and 1867 Reform Acts

The Great Reform Act of 1832 redistributed seats to new industrialised towns and expanded the franchise, though it was still limited to property-owning men.
The representation of the People Act 1867 considerably extended the franchise in England and Wales, including sections of urban working class in the electoral system for the first time.
The 1867 reform was driven partly by the Conservative Prime Minister Benjamin Disraeli’s desire to gain public support.
The 1867 Act still had limitations, failing to grant universal male suffrage and maintaining the property qualification.

Consequences of Parliamentary Reform (1830-1867)

Expansion of the franchise increased the influence of the middle and working classes in the political process.
The reforms were a significant step towards democratisation, expanding political power beyond the landed gentry and wealthy elites.
The secret ballot was introduced in 1872, further protecting voters from intimidation and bribery, an outcome realized due to the pressure for reform.
These reforms triggered a shift in political alliances, with parties striving to appeal to new voters. An example is the rise of popular Conservatism under Disraeli.
Reforms also had implications beyond England and Wales, influencing debates on representation in other parts of the British Empire.