Late Francoism: Reform, Stagnation, and Political Tensions

Francoist Reformism vs. Immobility

During this period, the Francoist regime attempted to modernize its political structure through a policy of openness, or apertura, without implementing genuine democratic changes. The political rise of Admiral Carrero Blanco signified the strengthening of the technocrats. Successive governments from 1962 onwards incorporated new ministers from this reformist line, such as Manuel Fraga Iribarne, who held the portfolio of Information and Tourism. This new direction led to a renewal policy with measures crucial for improving social welfare.

Key Legislative and Political Reforms

Several significant legislative reforms were carried out during this era:

• 1958: Within the framework of industrial relations, the Law on Collective Agreements was enacted.
• 1963: The creation of the Court of Public Order (TOP), which handled political crimes, leading to a reduction in overt repression.
• 1966: A new Press Law was passed, abolishing prior censorship and allowing for new publications. The Organic Law of the State was also enacted.
• 1967: A law on religious freedom was introduced, along with a law on family representation. Crucially, the comprehensive Social Security Act was passed, significantly expanding the welfare state.
• 1969: The Law of Succession was finalized, with Franco officially appointing Juan Carlos de Borbón as his successor. This move helped to ease tensions between the technocrats and the Falangists.

International Relations and Decolonization

In international relations, Spain requested access to the European Economic Community (EEC) in 1962 but was denied due to its non-democratic regime. However, in 1970, Spain successfully signed a preferential agreement with the EEC, which reduced tariffs and promoted exports.

Spain also participated in the process of decolonization. Equatorial Guinea was granted independence in 1968, and the territory of Ifni was ceded to Morocco in 1969. The status of Western Sahara remained unresolved until 1975.

The Matesa Scandal and Return to Stagnation

The tensions between reformers and immobilists came to a head in 1969 with the Matesa scandal. This financial fraud involved a textile machinery company with connections to Opus Dei, featuring allegations of corruption against high-ranking regime officials that were widely circulated by the press. The case had significant political implications, leading to a tightening of policy.

This reactionary shift was evident in the Burgos trial of 1970, where a military prosecutor sought six death sentences against ETA activists, sparking widespread protests. In this climate of internal tension, the Franco regime opted for an immobilist, or stationary, position. Consequently, a new draft law on political associations was halted, and the regime retreated into a period of stagnation.