Throughout the 1970s, the NF saw a rise in popularity and influence, mainly at a local level, for example, in the 1973 West Bromwich by-election the NF won 16 per cent.
They finished third in three by-elections, although these results were atypical of the country as a whole.
The party supported extreme loyalism in Northern Ireland, and attracted Conservative Party members who had become disillusioned after Harold Macmillan had recognised the right to independence of the African colonies, and had criticised Apartheid in South Africa.
During the 1970s, the NF's rallies became a regular feature of British politics.
Election results remained strong in a few working class urban areas, with a number of local council seats won, but the party never came anywhere near winning representation in parliament.
Throughout its active years, the NF were involved in several violent incidences, notably the 1974 Red Lion Square disorders, over the amnesty of illegal immigrants and the 1977 'Battle of Lewisham', which aimed to intimidate local minority residents.
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