Women Against Pit Closures

Motion Text

That this House commends Women Against Pit Closures on the 40th anniversary of the miners’ strike for their fortitude, resilience and solidarity during the 1984-85 strike and beyond; believes that the 1984-85 strike would not have lasted as long without the support of women; notes that women’s groups, like those in the North East of England, were feeding up to 1000 people a day, five days a week, as well as providing assistance with household bills; further notes that women’s groups provided childcare, and, during school holidays, provided food, holidays, presents and toys for the children of striking workers; highlights that this heroic work was all done on a shoestring, all done in the spirit of working-class solidarity; further highlights that many of those women went onto provide similar support during the covid-19 pandemic; further believes that women were increasingly involved in the politics of the strike and the politics of the community; pays tribute to Heather Wood and the lifesaving women of County Durham; thanks all those who were involved in the 40th anniversary march in City of Durham; pays further tribute to women involved in industrial disputes and strikes in their attempt to create a better world; and pays tribute to the women of the working-class all over the world.