Skip to main content
Work with the NEU
A show of solidarity for everyone
As well as our industrial strength, we need to build up reserves of class pride — and events like this festival are key, writes general secretary of the National Union of Mineworkers CHRIS KITCHEN
[Neil Terry Photography / neilterryphotography.co.uk]

AS we approach the 40th anniversary of the start of the miners’ strike against pit closures next year, it is striking just how little things have changed for working people and how important trade unions still are in our society.

Almost 40 years ago under Thatcher’s Tory government Britain’s coal miners went from being the “salt of the Earth” providing the coal that generated most of our electricity and kept our homes, schools and hospitals warm to being “the enemy within,” causing disruption and inconvenience for the country because we stood up to a government that was intent on destroying our industry and communities.

After the strike and the Tory government’s vicious programme of pit closures, what was left was privatised so that profit and shareholder dividends were the goals, not providing a vital commodity for the nation and decent secure jobs.

The 95th Anniversary Appeal
Support the Morning Star
You have reached the free limit.
Subscribe to continue reading.
Similar stories
Andy Burnham surrounded by Labour Party supporters at the launch of his campaign as Labour's candidate for the Makerfield by-election during a press conference at Stubshaw Cross Community and Sports Club in Ashton-in-Makerfield, Greater Manchester, May 22, 2026
New leadership / 10 July 2026
10 July 2026

IAN LAVERY MP warns that decades of neoliberal policies have left former industrial communities behind — but a renewed Labour commitment to working people could change the political landscape

battle of orgreave
Orgreave Truth and Justice Campaign / 10 July 2026
10 July 2026

The public inquiry is the result of more than a decade of determined campaigning. Now, those who fought for justice want the full story of government involvement and police conduct to be told, says KATE FLANNERY

Reform leader Nigel Farage who is hoping to make inroads in Wales at polls this week
Features / 5 May 2026
5 May 2026

Plaid Cymru’s Caerffili by-election win raised hopes on the left — but the complex realities of Wales suggest the Senedd election may be far less predictable, argues CATRIN ASHTON

INTERMINABLE DELAYS: The lifting of a 245-tonne steel dome onto Hinkley Point C's second reactor building, at in Bridgwater, Somerset on July 17 2025 - scheduled to be finished by 2025 it now won’t be until 2031
Features / 6 December 2025
6 December 2025

The Communist Party of Britain’s Congress last month debated a resolution on ending opposition to all nuclear power in light of technological advances and the climate crisis. RICHARD HEBBERT explains why