Wilson Industrial relations

The Social Contract

Involved voluntary pay restraint by trade unions in exchange for the government repealing the Industrial Act and pay board.

Industrial Relations Act

Legislation that caused friction between unions and the government under Heath's administration.

National Union of Mineworkers (NUM)

The trade union responsible for representing miners, reached a significant agreement with Wilson's government in March 1974.

Pay increase for miners

29% increase that exceeded the 8% pay limit imposed by Heath's government.

Short term stability (1974 Miner's agreement)

Allowed Wilson to stabilize energy shortages and maintain good relations with unions.

Wage inflation

Economic issue caused by generous wage increases granted to unions, contributing to overall inflation.

Royal College of Nursing

Group demanding higher wages for nurses, leading to a settlement of around 25%.

Firefighters' dispute (1975)

Situation where firefighters threatened strikes due to wages lagging behind inflation, settled by a substantial pay increase.

Conciliatory approach

Wilson's strategy of negotiating with unions to avoid confrontations, unlike Heath’s confrontational tactics.

Long-term economic issues

The deeper problems that continued despite short term fixes provided by wage increases and agreements.