Galbraith won the seat with an increased majority, although his Labour rival's vote share was only slightly reduced.

It was thought odd that a minister would communicate by post with an official of his own department, and there was considerable speculation of impropriety in the press.

The committee of civil servants originally established to probe the Vassall affair investigated the correspondence and declared it innocent, but the verdict was not universally accepted.

[4] Galbraith's death triggered a high-profile by-election for the Hillhead seat which would have a major impact on British politics.

[5] Jenkins ultimately won the contest, enabling him to emerge as the person who would lead the SDP–Liberal Alliance at the next general election.