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Fifty years ago in 1935, the first Labour government swept into power. This Spectrum documentary by Alwyn Owen looks at the issues, and the campaign and its results, half a century later.
Audrey Willing recalls the strength of feeling against the Forbes/Coates government due to their handling of the Depression.
Recreation of some election campaign speeches by the incumbent Coalition government.
Professor John Roberts comments about the make-up of the early Labour Party. Jim Edwards also comments.
A quote from John A. Lee, and recollections from Sir Arnold Nordmeyer defending Gordon Coates against the criticism he received at the time for his handling of the Depression as Finance Minister.
Alec Davidson says many people regarded the Labour leader as something akin to a Messiah. John Roberts evaluates Savage.
Audrey Willing comments about election meetings; and the concerns around Colin Scrimgeour's radio broadcasts are examined. The Government feared he would endorse Labour, and his station 1ZB's broadcast was jammed. He comments about the controversy.
The role of newspapers are also discussed and Arnold Nordmeyer recalls large crowds gathering in front of newspaper offices to hear the results.
Jim Edwards, Norman Douglas and Audrey Willing remember the celebrating crowds as Labour's victory was announced.
Archival recordings of announcer Clive Drummond announcing the results on election night, followed by Michael Joseph Savage's victory speech.