Wilson trade unions 1st

Question 1

Harmonious Relations

Answer 1

1964 Trade Union bosses would routinely pop round for ‘beer and sandwiches’ to discuss policy discrimination, in 1965 the trade union disputes act was designed to close a loophole that the unions and formed in previous acts, in wage bargaining Wilson strict a posture of moderation and diplomacy, many disputes were settled over the ‘beer and sandwiches’ act at number 10

Question 2

Detouring Relations

Answer 2

1966-67 Wilson and his colleges saw private concern about the role of the trade unions which was expressed by spectators of the sterling, a particularly alarming episode came on ‘mad Friday’ where there was a colossal run on the pound and a mass of wild rumours were in circulation, including the resignation of Wilson.

Question 3

in place of Strife

Answer 3

1969 Barbra Castle and her new role at the department of producing and employment was determined that the socialist planning should be extending to the decreasing trade unions, she also announced a policy called the ‘fair deal at work’ castle produced a white paper ‘in place of strife’ which led to an industrial relations bill in the spring of 1969, the key aspects were the government could impose a settlement when unions were in disputes which each other and strike ballots could be imposed.

Question 4

place of strife

Answer 4

this may have been logical but led to a fury in unions by introducing the force of law into a traditionally voluntary industrial relations system but Castle was strongly backed by Wilson. Callaghan was the first to disagree, followed by colleagues who were alarmed at breaking their historic relationship with the unions.
The Trde Union Congress voted it down from 8 million to 846,000 votes, so the bill was withdrawn.