The myth of coalition: the Lib–Lab Pact

This chapter reconsiders the Pact between Labour and the Liberals from 1977 to 1978, showing previously hidden agendas. Declassified records that were originally not supposed to be retained provide especially interesting insights into internal debates regarding the Pact, including that of a special Strategy Cabinet at Chequers in the summer of 1977, as well as Callaghan and Steel’s meetings discussing strategy and the challenges of minority government. A particular focus of this chapter is the often overlooked renewal of the Pact after 3 months, showing alternative options considered by Labour, such as a monthly deal with the Liberals or different formal arrangements with other parties. While it has often been assumed that the Opposition were staunchly against coalitions and pacts, the Conservatives’ response to the Pact was more complex, as was their exploration of potential interparty deals.