The great Grunwick strike 1976-1978

A history

DVD, running time 1 hour 4 minutes, director Chris Thomas, produced by Brent Trades Union Council, available from Brent TUC, 375 High Road, Willesden, London NW10 2JR, £10.00 including p&p

Brent Trade Union Council was heavily involved in assisting the Grunwick strikers and commissioned this DVD to mark 30 years since the end of the dispute.

The Grunwick dispute erupted at a photo processing plant in Willesden, London, in the summer of 1976 and lasted two years. A predominately East African and South Asian female workforce went on strike over appalling working conditions and the issue of trade union recognition.

The dispute is remembered as one of the most significant and bitter in the history of the British labour movement.

The DVD examines the ability of the employer to deny the workers union membership and the role of the courts in settling the strike.

DVD director Chris Thomas spent considerable time tracking down most of the major figures from the strike. As a result the DVD features both original footage and extensive contemporary interviews with ordinary strikers, members of the strike committee and a wide range of those involved in supporting the strike.

The magnificent solidarity action by the Cricklewood postal workers is also highlighted.

The film is both inspirational and instructive, ideal for showing at union branch meetings or trades council meetings.