TUC + Glasgow rent strike Flashcards
(17 cards)
membership of the union before the war?
4 million
membership of union during the war?
6 million
member after the war?
8 million
What impact did the increased membership have on the unions?
- strengthened unions
- government depended on workers in key industries such as steel , engineering and coal during the war
- put unions in a stronger bargaining position to negotiate for higher wages and better conditions
What was the triple alliance?
alliance between the National Transport Workers Union, the National Union of Railwaymen and Miners’ Federation
When was the triple alliance formed?
1914-15
Name 3 reasons why the First World War improved conditions of the labouring class?
- 5mill men fighting overseas, remaining workers in a stronger bargaining position
- Liberal PM Asquith 1915 Coalition govt included labour leader (Arthur Henderson) then Lloyd George included two more trade union leaders in 1916 - strengthened the trade union voice in govt
- Govt nationalised industries and TU worked better with govt
- Patriotism
What was the role of the Trade Union Congress (TUC)?
Administrative and organised council to help the union work together
- No formal power
- Act as an organisation to speak up for different unions
Why was there a wave of rent strikes in Glasgow 1915?
Large number of people came to Glasgow to work in shipyards during the war. Landlords exploited the increased demand for housing by increasing rent
How many people took part in the rent strikes?
By Nov 1915 25,000 mostly women
What happened during the rent strike?
Tenants collectively refused to pay increases in rent. Bailiffs were sent to collect rent were met with opposition. Landlords’ houses were picketed
Who supported the strikers?
Employers in munitions factories and dockyards on the Clyde who did not want to see their production affected. Threatened sympathy strike action.
What was the outcome of the Glasgow rent strike?
1915, Lloyd George passed Rent Restriction Act which guaranteed rents would be fixed at pre-war levels.
Why was the Glasgow rent strike significant?
Through industrial and militant protest in an area essential for wartime production, the rent strikes and trade unionists had won a considerable improvement in living conditions. It demonstrated the ability of unions to pressurise govts
What was important about Glasgow?
- heart of British heavy industry
- 90% of amour plating needed for tanks
What was abolished in August 1915?
leaving certificates
Who were the rent strikes led by?
Women’s Housing Association
