1911
The Liverpool General Transport
Strike Committee
Between 14th of June and 28th of August 1911 the city of Liverpool was
brought to a virtual standstill by 'the General Transport Strike'. Initiated by local seamen, the dispute
attracted the involvement of ships' stewards & catering staff, dock labourers, carters, tugboatmen, coalheavers,
ancillary waterfront workers, railwaymen, tramwaymen, electric power station workers, and 'scavengers' (street
cleaners & dustmen) 66,000 workers in all.
The strike committee developed a strategy which contained many effective ploys. One such related to their
exerting control over the carriage of goods and commodities coming into, or going out of the city. Essential goods could only be moved
without interference if the committee had granted a 'permit'. Otherwise, any movement would require the presence of a heavy military and police escort.
The resolution of the conflict saw many important concessions made in favour of the striking groups. Generally viewed as
progressive and victorious episode, the General Transport Strike is recognised as a watershed in the history of radicalism in Liverpool.
Unheard Voices,Unseen Lives are a collective of young artists living and
working in the Dingle and Toxteth districts of Liverpool. Led by David
Jacques the group (all graduates of the local artskills project) are
involved with the creation of site-specific artworks inspired by and
located within the city of Liverpool.
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