Strikes Flashcards
Causes
During the First World War, the British government took control (nationalisation) of many industries. They increased wages and improved conditions in coal mines, because coal was in demand, and they didn’t want any strikes. After the war, the mines were returned to mine owners. Demand for coal dropped, imported coal became cheaper and prices fell. Mine owners reduced miner’s wages and increased their working hours. The leader of the miners’ Union, A. J. Cooke called for a strike.
Methods
The TUC (Trade Unions Congress) called a General Strike of all workers: On 4th May 1926, miners, railway workers and dockers went on strike, supported by many workers.
The government had prepared for a strike. The army was called in to do the jobs of the workers. Middle class students were encouraged to do work in heavy industry.
The government used radio and newspapers to turn public opinion against the strikers. E.g. Prime Minister Stanley Baldwin - speeches on radio – referred to strike as revolution
Army and police sent to key cities to stop violent clashes between strikers and government supporters
TUC: created its own newspaper to explain its actions, reminded strikers to stay peaceful, and strikers travelled the country to picket with other industries. Funds were prepared to help feed strikers and their families.
The strike ended after 9 days. The General Strike failed and harmed the union movement
The TUC gave in and told its members to go back to work. The miners were left to carry on the fight alone and after 6 months of real hardship they were forced to return to work – for longer hours and lower wages. To stop any repeat of such a strike the government passed the Trade Union Act 1927 making all General Strikes against the law. This was a serious blow to the Trade Union Movement. Union membership fell dramatically as people lost faith in the Unions. In the depression era of the 1930s, union numbers dropped as people couldn’t afford the fees.
After WW2 there was a strong belief that life should be better for people in Britain as this is what people had been fighting for. NHS was created, industries were nationalised, easy to press governments for better pay and conditions. Union Membership flourished after WW2.
Outcomes
Long Term: Causes decrease in union membership as it was a huge failure
recovered after WW2
Short Term: The TUC gave in and told its members to go back to work
