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Tolpuddle: almost 200 years on, bosses are still attacking the material conditions of workers
BEN SELLERS, of the Institute of Employment Rights, highlights how attempts to undermine workers’ security and curb collective action have remained a common theme over the years – but resistance remains a common theme too
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FOR those of us in the labour movement, July is synonymous with two glorious celebrations of trade unionism. If you can’t be at both, you certainly have to be at one. 

First comes the Durham Miners’ Gala, on the second Saturday of July, followed a week later by the Tolpuddle Martyrs’ Festival. 

These are very different occasions, with distinct histories, but they are linked by a remembrance and respect for the power of collective struggle. There’s nothing like it. 

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