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RMTnews :: july/august 2005
36
O
ver ten thousand people flocked to Tolpuddle
in Dorset in July to celebrate the birth of
modern British trade unionism.
RMT members took their banners to march
through the village where 170 years ago six farm
labourers were arrested for taking part in a
meeting to protest against their meagre pay of six
shillings a week - equivalent to 30p today.
They were found guilty of trade union
activities and sent to penal colonies in Australia
but were granted pardons after a huge public
outcry.
Their struggle helped to form and inspire the
British labour movement, which campaigners
insist, is as crucial as ever to the survival, safety
and fair treatment of British workers.
Chairman Jon Gray of the South West TUC,
which organises the event, said he was delighted
with the record attendance.
"The rally has been growing bigger every year
and it is wonderful to see so many people,
especially youngsters, here today," he enthused.
Trade unionists flock
to Tolpuddle