16.05.1996

Why work did not begin

From the British Worker, official strike bulletin of the TUC, May 13 1926

There was a general expectation on Wednesday, when the great strike terminated, that work would be resumed forthwith. To the great disappointment of the nation, this did not happen.

Many men who went back to work were told they must accept fresh conditions and lower wages. Upon instructions from their unions they refused to do this, and were thereupon told their employers did not want them ...

Fellow trade unionists: The General Strike has ended. It has not failed ... You came out together, in accordance with the instructions of the executives of your unions. Return together on their instructions, as and when they are given ...

Your union will protect you, and will insist that all agreements previously in force shall be maintained ...

General Council, TUC