"Shorten the hours and prolong your lives." Happy Birthday GMB

 

English Radical History

@EnglishRadical

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13h

"Shorten the hours and prolong your lives." The Gas Workers’ and General Labourers’ Union was formed #OTD 1889 after workers at Beckton Gas Works were laid off. Led by Will Thorne, the union grew quickly and successfully campaigned for an 8-hour working day in the industry.

The Gas Workers’ and General Labourers’ Union was formed #OTD 1889

For all my Boiler Makers friends and comrades. The predecessor to the GMB Union was formed on this day in Beckton Gas works, what is now in Newham, London by future West Ham Mayor and MP, Will Thorne. 

Hat tip @englishradical