The Daily Switching Sides in Britain
Dec 17, 2019
Patrick Kingsley, an international correspondent for The New York Times, delves into the political shift occurring in Shirebrook, England—a town once firmly in the Labour camp. He explores the transformation from coal mining to factory work, spotlighting the impact of Brexit and economic changes on local sentiment. Conversations with residents reveal a longing for the past and the harsh realities of new employment with Sports Direct. Kingsley uncovers how these dynamics influenced recent electoral outcomes, marking a significant shift in British politics.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Shirebrook's Coal Mine Legacy
- Shirebrook, a small town in England, was built around a coal mine in 1896.
- The mine was the heart of the town, providing jobs and fostering a strong union movement tied to the Labour Party.
Coal Industry Decline and Political Tumult
- The decline of the British coal industry in the 1960s and 70s led to political turmoil as governments tried to close coal pits.
- Miners' unions, powerful in towns like Shirebrook, responded with strikes, creating a cycle of conflict.
Thatcher's Standoff with the Miners
- Margaret Thatcher aimed to liberalize the British economy and end the miners' strikes.
- Her government stockpiled coal, allowing them to withstand the year-long miners' strike of 1984 and ultimately break the union's power.