Formation, Legacy, and Change in the National Union of General and Municipal Workers, and the Transport and General Workers' Union, 1889–1978. Issue 1 (1st September 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: England, Joe
• Is Part Of: Historical studies in industrial relations. Volume 42:Issue 1(2021)
• Page Start: 27
• Page End: 74
• Publication Date: 2021-09-01
• Subjects: Industrial relations -- History -- Periodicals; Industrial relations; History; Periodicals; 331.09
• DOI: 10.3828/hsir.2021.42.2
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1362-1572

Abstract

Abstract : This article explores the paradox of the two large 'general' workers' unions – the former Transport and General Workers' Union (TGWU) and the National Union of General and Municipal Workers (NUGMW) – which from their militant origins to within a comparatively few years were seen as undemocratic, moderate in industrial tactics and right-wing in labour politics – 'pillars of conservatism'. In due time they moved from the fringes to centre stage, acquiring one in four of all trade-unionists, and dominating with their block votes the decisions of the Trades Union Congress and the Labour Party conference. Even more dramatic was the apparent overnight conversion to left-wing views within the TGWU when Frank Cousins became general secretary in 1956. Then under his successor, Jack Jones, responding to the dynamic of shop-floor organization, the TGWU radically changed its ethos and government. The NUGMW, with David Basnett as general secretary from 1973, also moved away from its long-standing positions but its government remained unchanged. But in 1979 the economic and political environments within which the unions were operating completely changed.