John R. Raynes

“ In January of 1915 discontent was general, and the Executive sent to the companies a demand for an all-round increase of 5s. to meet the changed conditions.
"It is not desirable that there should be internal strife," said the report for the year 1914, "but it is quite sure that in the future, when the war is over, the workers who are now fighting in defence of their country will have to continue their struggle for a fair share of the capital they create." ”

“ By September of 1915 the rise in food prices was more than 37 per cent. above the level of July, 1914, and the Executive was compelled to again enter demands on the companies. Early in October, it was resolved to press forward for the full 5s. war bonus all round; for sixpence per day to count as a wages increase, and the remaining 2s. to be termed a war bonus. Piles of resolutions were pouring in from branches, many threatening a strike, and they had some effect on the companies. An agreement was arrived at in October that railwaymen whose standard rate was under 30s. ”

“ The negotiators returned to their task, but owing to the attitude of the N.U.R. negotiators, who did not support the Society's demand, the Society representatives were unable just then to get more for the adults. The Executive were satisfied that the negotiators had done their utmost, and accepted the position. It was therefore resolved that upon the new war bonus agreement being received by the General Secretary, it should be forwarded to the President, with authority to sign it. ”

“ Throughout the war period, but notably in 1915-1917, questions of unfair methods of releasing men for military service caused friction, and the Society had to strongly intervene to protect men with family responsibilities. ”

“ On September 21st the electric lines were included in the general agreement. The increase dated from September 16th, and brought the total war increase to 10s. and 5s. respectively, aided by a further 5s. to men and 2s. 6d. to boys on April 9th of 1917, after a similar struggle.
Let us leave the cost of living problem at that point for a time to revert to a remarkably interesting debate on the question of Craft v. Industrial Unionism, at the Trade Union Congress in 1915. ”

“ While railway directors and shareholders were guaranteed profits during the period of control. equal each year to the profits of 1913, no wage or work guarantee was made to the men, and within a few months under employment was a marked feature in several parts of the country. ”

“ This is, of course, increasing the economic difficulties of the country, as well as causing serious complaints from the men, and we should like the position defining. As our members are now State servants, they contend they are entitled to a full week's wage. ”

“ The whole of our men feel it is not a right thing for them to have to submit
The present Head Office, 8, Park Square, Leeds, 1920.
to any indignity in the streets or elsewhere because they are not
in the Army, when they are prevented from joining the Army, and a request has been made that I appeal to the War Office to supply them with buttons to wear in their coats, to indicate that they are doing their duty for their country. ”

“ It was decided, with a desire to assist the members, and at the same time to safeguard the funds from any great strain, to allow those losing one day per week 1s.: two days per week, 3s.; three days per week and over, 2s. per day; half benefit to cleaner members; only time lost less than six days to be considered for this resolution. ”

“ It could count for nothing in face of such facts, and a demand for a 10s. advance in wages, not war bonus, became imperative.
The membership of the Society had grown considerably, for during 1914 it had increased by 1,123, in spite of the fact that 1,400 had joined the colours, and the year closed with 32,900 members, and funds of £184,327. There were 11,998 members of the National Insurance Department, Approved Society No. ”