Merit on the march

The meritocratic ideal commanded widespread support during post-war reconstruction. By imposing common burdens and demanding common sacrifices, the war stimulated demands for a more just social order, administered by the state, planned by a technocracy and dedicated to the ideal of fair shares for all. It quickened the pace of social mobility, breaking down class barriers and rewarding talent with opportunity. The RAF, for example, was increasingly open to men of ability. ‘The war saw the weakening of the public school influence,’ a Flight Lieutenant emphasised. ‘In the RAF technical and managerial ability was becoming more important than one's background. We had one man who had been the “Boots” in a public school and became a very respected flying officer.’ On the Home Front the war brought rapid promotion for many, as employers abandoned old prejudices for the sake of economic efficiency. ‘We were searching for talent, as were most factories. Trying to get people to take on a greater level of responsibility’, recalled a managing director in the engineering industry. ‘We were pulling them up all the time. Everybody felt wanted. There were promotion prospects. Able people who wouldn't have had the chance before came forward. Anybody who had the talent was used.’ The 1945 Labour victory confirmed the popular impression that British society was opening up to the talented. Of Labour MPs, 43 per cent had no formal education after the age of fourteen.