The reaction to these reforms did vary - some were believed to be successes and some were seen as failures.

Successes

• The NHS brought free health care to all from the cradle to the grave, including those who could not afford it.
• The 'Homes for All' policy led to new towns, such as Cwmbran, and many families benefitted from the prefabs.
• Education was granted to all for free.
• Nationalisation provided improved working conditions in key industries for many.

Shortcomings

• The NHS was unpopular with many doctors and it was seen as running at an enormous cost.
• 'Homes for All' did not meet its expected ambitious targets.
• '11-plus' education tests were seen as unfair by many, and a number of Labour members wished for a comprehensive school structure where pupils of all backgrounds and abilities were together.
• Nationalisation was seen as protecting declining industries, and at a cost.

Other aspects

• Despite these reforms, Labour only narrowly won the 1950 election.
• Rationing of goods was still in place five years after World War Two had finished.
• Reforms had led to a rise in taxation for many people.
• The Conservative Party challenged the nationalisation of the steel industries, and the Labour party was becoming weakened by differences within.
• Another election was called in October 1951. The Conservatives won the election with Winston Churchill returning as Prime Minister.
• Despite the change in government, the Welfare State remained in place.