The Socialist Forum: The S.P.G.B., Trade Unions and Unemployed Organisations
A correspondent (T. W. C., Clapham) asks the following questions :—
(1) Am I right in assuming that it would be consistent with the principles of the S.P.G.B. for a member to be outside of a Trade Union?
(2) Can Local Unemployed organisations (not necessarily the N.U.W.M., which is under the influence of the Communist Party) be of some assistance to the unemployed; i.e., in informing members and non-members the correct procedure in obtaining relief, or by deputations in persuading the Local Guardians to grant extra relief. (I know there is a maximum amount which is laid down by the Ministry of Health) or to grant relief to those who have been refused.
(3) Could an unemployed member of the S.P.G.B. be a member of such an organisation?
(1) Membership of the S.P.G.B. is not conditional on membership of a trade union, but, of course, membership is denied to those who we know are guilty of anti-working-class action. Many persons who are not trade unionists have sound reasons for their position.
(2) An organisation of unemployed may be of some assistance in the ways mentioned by our correspondent.
(3) Members of the S.P.G.B. are permitted to belong to certain of the organisations of unemployed.
Ed. Comm