RELEASE OF DOCUMENTATION ABOUT THE 1984-85 MINERS' STRIKE

Early day motion 918, tabled 8 January 2014 by Ian Lavery (Labour). Signed by 70 members.

That this House is appalled to learn what thousands of people in mining communities have strongly suspected for 30 years in the wake of the release of the Cabinet papers relating to the 1984-85 miners' strike, that senior Cabinet ministers, including the Prime Minister, micromanaged the Government's side of the strike, whilst publicly claiming to be innocent bystanders; notes that, all along, the National Coal Board had the intention to close over 70 collieries whilst publicly claiming the number to be around 20; further notes that senior Cabinet Ministers deliberately misled the country; further notes that when those striking to protect their communities seemed to be on the verge of victory, the Government plotted to bring in the armed forces to avoid defeat; and furthermore demands a full independent inquiry into the then Government's handling of the 1984-85 miners' strike.

Signatures by party: Labour 60, Liberal Democrat 3, Plaid Cymru 2, Social Democratic and Labour Party 2, Green 1, Independent 1, Respect 1.