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Enoch Powell's "Rivers of Blood" Speech
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Race Relations Act of 1968
"Rivers of Blood"
Presenting the bill to Parliament, the Home Secretary, Jim Callaghan, said, "The House has rarely faced an issue of greater social significance for our country and our children".
The Act extended the powers of the Race Relations Board to deal with complaints of discrimination. It also set up a new body, the Community Relations Commission, to promote "harmonious community relations".
Race Relations Act of 1968
"Rivers of Blood"
Outcome
Powell warned that Britain must be "literally mad" to allow mass immigration from Commonwealth countries. He predicted disaster for Britain with a reference to the Roman poet, Virgil, warning "like the Roman, I seem to see the River Tiber forming with much blood." His words were interpreted by many as a prophesy that immigration would lead to violence on the streets of Britain.
According to most accounts, the popularity of Powell's perspective on race may have played a decisive contributory factor in the Conservatives' surprise victory in the 1970 General Election.
In 1968, a new Race Relations Act came into force making it illegal to refuse housing, employment, or public services to people because of their ethical background.
Outcome
The speech caused a political storm, making Powell one of the most talked about, and divisive politicians in the country, and leading to his controversial dismissal from the Shadow Cabinet by Conservative Party Leader Edward Heath.
Enoch Powell
In April of the same year, Enoch Powell, the Conservative MP for Wolverhampton South West, delivered a speech at the Midland Hotel in New Street, Birmingham that would ultimately see him destroy his political career.