In May 1902, the Peace of Vereeniging was signed and The Transvaal and the Orange Free State became part of the British Empire. There were many changes in Britain as well.Army Reforms
The Esher Reforms:
- Improvements to army organisation through better defined roles, such as that of the chief of the general staff, who had responsibility for planning and training.
- Improved training and professionalism through the introduction of new drill books and the establishment of the military training base at Salisbury Plain and officer training at Camberley.
- New and better weapons were introduced such as an improved Lee-Enfield Rifle.
The Haldane Reforms:
- The British Expeditionary Force (BEF), a permanent, battle-ready fighting force was introduced. The BEF made an important contribution during the First World War.
- The organisation of the Territorial Army (TA) was improved and it was strengthened. The TA also played an important role during the First World War.
The combined impact of these Army Reforms made the British Army stronger, more effective and more efficient.
Social Reforms
The Liberal Reforms of 1906 - 1914
These were a range of measures designed to improve the health and well-being of the poorest in society. The reforms were introduced partly as a result of the Boer War. The Interdepartmental Committee of Physical Deterioration of 1904 highlighted how poverty and associated problems such as rickets weakened the physical condition of British people. Among the measures were:
- The Free School Meals Act of 1906 where local authorities could provide meals for the poorest children in schools.
- The National Insurance Act of 1911 made it compulsory for the poorest workers and workers in industries most prone to unemployment to participate in a government-backed scheme to provide insurance against sickness and unemployment.
- Measures were also taken to restrict exploitation of workers and provide medical checks for school children.
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