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The 1972 miners’ strike – a pivotal moment for working-class confidence
JON TRICKETT MP looks back 50 years to one of the most significant industrial struggles in Britain, to see what lessons there are for the labour movement today
Saltley

WITH the Conservative government set to extend further pay restraint into a second decade, and with trade union activity at a historically low ebb, a new generation of trade union leaders are grappling with how to work with their members, and with politicians, to lever government policy. 

There are some positive signs. Trade union membership has ticked up for a fourth year running. 

New leaders such as Unite’s Sharon Graham have extensive experience in organising and leverage which has resulted in increased workplace actions. 

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