Disraeli had come to power in 1874 on a programme of moderate social reform wedded to ‘a little more energy in foreign affairs’. Few, not even Gladstone, would have doubted that their overseas policy had been ‘a little’ more animated. Even on domestic issues, Disraeli could claim to have delivered on his modest promise. Measures such as the Trades Union Acts, Artisans Dwellings Act, Sale of Food and Drink Act and Public Health Act had laid down benchmarks for the enhancement of national life, particularly in urban areas, and made funds available for their implementation (albeit at the
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