OLLOWING the recent aircraft workers’ demonstrations in London, it was decided to hold a conference of shop stewards representing all firms in the industry. This Aircraft Shop Stewards National Conference was held im London at ‘the end of February. As it was of political importance and has not been reported elsewhere, readers of The Week may find a report of interest. There was a good attendance despite the obstructive attitude of the AEU Executive Council which threatened AEU shop stewards with “disciplinary action” if they participated in the conference. On a show of hands it was clear that well over half the delegates at the conference were AEU — presumably Brother Conway’s letters had not reached them all. By an overwhelming majority the delegates passed a resolution “deploring” the AEU Executive’s action. After discussion, the conference, which consisted of a very representative group from all the main firms, decided not to attempt a detailed policy on how to deal with the aircraft crisis as it affected various sections of the industry. Instead they
settled for a general policy line. This
centred around the theme of “The
Right to Work” and it was decided
tO incorporate the following points in
a policy leaflet:
(1) Nationalisation as a step to fur-
ther the rights of the workers;
(2) Developing @ British industry
—as distinct from an American
subcontracting industry. This
should apply to both military
and civil planes with an em-
phasis on developing the latter.
(3) The Government should dev-
elop research into the kind of
world market in planes where
Britain could most usefully
compete (here, ‘several dele-
gates singled out the under-
developed countries as worthy
of special attention);
(4) Full employment should be
assured for all aircraft workers,
as distinct from severance pay.
The policy leaflet is expected out
soon — 200,000 may be produced.
The shop stewards are in a militant
mood and keen to develop the cam-
paign. The secretary is Mr. J.
Bridges, 20 Godfrey Close, Half
Hyde, Stevenage, Herts.