Twenty-four trade unionists who picketed during the 1972 national builders’ strike and were subsequently convicted for their actions have finally been cleared of the trumped-up charges including unlawful assembly, conspiracy to intimidate and affray.
Their real ‘crime’? They were striking for better wages and health and safety in the industry, at a time when many workers were injured or killed on unregulated building sites.
Today, the Court of Appeal overturned the convictions of all convictions on the grounds that original witness statements had been destroyed. Finally, justice has been done. But why has it taken so long? Six of the original men convicted have died during this hideously extended process. At least their relatives can finally reach peace of mind after their vindication.
