National Union of Public Employees (now UNISON) poster during the 12% pay campaign, 1982

On this day in 1982 (16th June) miners in the South Wales collieries went out on strike in solidarity with NHS workers who were campaigning for a 12% pay rise. For several years prior the inflation rate had been running at 12% or above and the miners felt they were involved in a similar battle with the Conservative government over pay negotiations.

The pay demands continued throughout the summer and in September the TUC organised a “Defend the NHS” rally and Day of Action. With the intervention of ACAS an agreement was eventually reached later in the year.

TUC poster promoting the 22nd September Day of Action

TUC poster promoting the 22nd September Day of Action

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