Originally published in 1990 and written with full access to the official records of the NGA, this book provides a remarkably detailed history of one of Britain’s most democratic and industrially effective trades unions. The author describes and analyses the evolution and development of the NGA from 1948 to 1989. This is, however, more than a study of one trade union. It provides unparalleled insight into post-war industrial relations in the general printing and newspaper industry and a unique account and analysis of the impact of the most radical industrial revolution ever experienced in these industries. It also stands alone as a fascinating inquiry into the anatomy of union mergers.

The book is arranged in four parts. The first deals with the NGA and its founding unions’ relationship with other printing unions, the formation of the NGA in 1964, and the formation of the NGA (1982) in March 1982. The second part deals with the decision-making and financial structure of the NGA, whilst the third part analyses its relationship with the TUC and the Labour Party. The final part deals with the relationship with employers, and covers such central issue as wages, hours of work, holidays, pensions and women’s issues.

A History of the National Graphical Association will be an invaluable resource for students and scholars of industrial relations, labour history and contemporary British politics.