Joe Gormley Biography and Timeline

Coal Wage Dispute

Joe Gormley led the miners union during the 1972 national strike over pay negotiations with the National Coal Board.

NCB Pay Settlement

The 1972 miners strike ended after a court of inquiry recommended substantial improvements in miners pay.

First National Coal Strike

Joe Gormley led the National Union of Mineworkers during its successful industrial campaign for higher wages.

Miners Strike

Leads the miners union during the overtime ban that increases pressure on Heath's government.

Role range: 1973-1974 – 1971-1982

Coal Pay Demands

The miners union renewed pressure over wages in negotiations with the state coal employer.

Coal Pay Negotiations

Joe Gormley represented the miners in a dispute over pay that helped precipitate the February 1974 general election.

NCB Wage Settlement

Following the February 1974 election miners secured a new pay agreement bringing the industrial action to an end.

Second Coal Strike

Under Joe Gormley the NUM organised a national stoppage that intensified the political crisis facing the Heath government.

Resignation of Joe Gormley

Joe Gormley resigned as President of the NUM to be replaced by leftwinger Arthur Scargill

NUM Leadership Transition

Joe Gormley retired from the NUM presidency ahead of Arthur Scargill succeeding him.