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Administration Quote by Harold MacMillan

“Although I am still in favour of a National Government in these difficult times, and shall probably be found in the great majority of cases in the Government Lobby, there are some issues that have arisen, or are likely to arise, upon which I am unable to give the Government the support which it…” quote by Harold MacMillan
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“Although I am still in favour of a National Government in these difficult times, and shall probably be found in the great majority of cases in the Government Lobby, there are some issues that have arisen, or are likely to arise, upon which I am unable to give the Government the support which it has, perhaps, the right to expect from those receiving the Government Whip. It occurs to me, therefore, that it would perhaps be more satisfactory if I was no longer regarded as being among the supporters of the present Administration.”

Harold MacMillan

About This Quote

Source Speech: Parliamentary debate, United Kingdom, 1950s

The speaker supports a strong central government but cannot back all its policies, suggesting a need for independent judgment on specific issues.

In simple terms: Supports government but wants freedom to disagree on some policies.

Key Takeaway

Balance loyalty with personal conviction.

Themes

politics government integrity

Mood

thoughtful serious

Type

political reflective

When to use this quote

  • legislative voting
  • public statements
  • party membership
  • policy advocacy

Key Concepts

parliamentary democracy conscience policy disagreement

Questions to Reflect On

  • When should personal conscience override party lines?
  • How to express dissent without losing credibility?
A Different Perspective

May conflict with party unity and affect influence.

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