Why did the influence of trade unions increase 1915-19? Flashcards
How many workers were members of trade unions in 1913?
4.2 million
How many workers were members of trade unions in 1919?
8 million
What allowed for direct negotiation between the unions and government?
The nationalisation of industry, including railways and mines during the war.
Why were the unions in a good bargaining position during the war?
The government were forced to co-operate with the unions to ensure industrial production remained constant.
What is evidence of there being a huge strain on the British labour market during the war?
Out of a total male working population of 15 million, 5 million were recruited into the army, 400,000 into the navy and 300,000 into the air force.
What was there a shortage of during war?
Imported raw materials
What happened to industrial production during the war?
Declined rapidly (including munitions)
What is evidence of industrial production having declined during the war?
By July 1915, mining produce had fallen 20%, including coal output; iron and steel production was down 19%; engineering was down 30%; shipbuilding fell 17% from pre-war levels.
What was the impact of industrial production having declined during the war?
- The cost of living increased - housing rent, food, coal and industrial products went up. By March 1915, coal miners were demanding a 20% rise in wages to meet the growing expense of rent and food.
- Put labourers and trade unions in a strong position to negotiate for improved working conditions and increased wages during this period.
Who was Ernest Bevin?
He was elected to the executive committee of the NTWF in 1916. He was pivotal in forming NTWF policy during the war.
Who were the NTWF?
The National Transport Workers’ Federation
Who was James Henry Thomas?
He as responsible for the NUR. He became its general secretary in 1916.
Who were the NUR?
The National Union of Railwaymen
What were the MFGB?
The Miners’ Federation of Great Britain
When was the Triple Alliance formed?
1914
