page 30 • variant • volume 2 number 15 • Summer 2002 The March The story of the historic Scottish hunger march Harry McShane Introduction On Friday, 9th June 1938, along the main roads Originally published in 1933 by the National leading to Edinburgh, columns of men were Unemployed Workers Movement (NUWM) this story marching; men with bands, banners, slogans, eve- relates events seventy years ago. Massive numbers of ryone equipped with knapsack and blanket, their people were out of work in those days, with the field cookers on ahead: an army in miniature, an attendant poverty and misery. unemployed army, the Hunger Marchers. Readers of Three Days That Shook Edinburgh will In the ranks were men of all political opin- themselves feel angry that so little has been done by ions—Labour men, Communists, ILP; there were the labour movement to organise and fight back Trade Unionists and non-Unionists; there were against the ravages of unemployment in the present even sections of women marchers—all marching situation. The daily growing number of unemployed four abreast, shoulder to shoulder, keeping step, are not involved in organising contemporary protest surging along rhythmically. marches to any great degree, and compared to the Here was the United Front of the workers, one of the first fronts of the drive for Unity now being efforts, the imagination and the organisation of the The Hunger March of June 1933, was a coping made in all parts of Britain. NUWM in the thirties they are puny affairs. stone to a whole series of mass activities which In a situation where more than ten people are had swept Scotland. In Glasgow, in Renfrewshire, chasing every vacancy; where more than a million Youth in Fifeshire, Lanarkshire, Dumbartonshire, even workers have been unemployed for more than a year; An outstanding feature of the March was the pre- in far north Aberdeen and Fraserburgh, the mass when the majority of school leavers can't find a job, dominant part played in it by the young workers. movement of the unemployed had developed. and in many cases are not entitled to any benefits; At least 50 per cent of the Marchers could be clas- Despite sneers, insults, batonings, jailings, the agi- and finally, when most men and women over fifty sified as young workers. Their discipline, courage tation had developed, thousands of meetings held, can be taken off the unemployment register to reduce and determination were of the very highest order incessant delegations and deputising, huge popu- the total, and they realise that they may never work and showed how the Youth can assist to a tremen- lar petitions containing the demands of the unem- again - has the time not come when we must raise dous degree the fight of the Unemployed. ployed organised, mass demonstrations held. the fundemental question of the very existence of the This March, with its strong Youth representa- Clashes with the police were frequent (in capitalist system? tion, is a living refutation of the pessimists who Glasgow, due to plain clothes policemen provoca- Long before labour leaders became respectable, assert that the young workers are not interested tion, a fierce fight took place on Glasgow Green they discussed and organised on street comers and, as in the struggle. It drives home the necessity of the and fourteen policemen were injured). A tremen- this pamphlet shows, fought for decent living condi- most careful and extensive preparations being dous petition, containing the signatures of over tions in the midst of mass unemployment. The pio- made so that in every area and locality the young 112,000 people was organised, a concession of 1s neers of the working class unions did have a dream workers will be drawn into the general mass activ- 6d per child literally torn out of the Glasgow PAC1 - it was called Socialism. In a world where what is ity. It reinforces a thousand times the urgent by mass pressure— only to have the National on offer is only booms and slumps with the occasion- necessity of building strong Youth sections of the Government2 step in, in order to prevent a work- al war thrown in, there must be a better way. Unemployed Movement. ers' victory in Glasgow. In 1983, when he was ninety years old, Harry In Fife, in Dumbartonshire, even in Ayrshire, McShane was interviewed by the magazine Socialist the workers forced concessions. Review, and had this to say: Why They Marched County Hunger Marches in Fife, Ayrshire, The marchers were going to Edinburgh, endeav- "Last night on television Michael Foot was talking about Lanarkshire, were organised. They were very suc- ouring to secure an interview with Sir G Collins, unemployment, that it would be with us for a long time cessful. More and more workers were being Secretary of State for Scotland. They proposed to to come. For the first time he was admitting that brought into the struggle; hope was being given to lay before him the steadily worsening conditions unemployment is a permanent feature under capitalism. the faint-hearted and the lukewarm. The struggle of the unemployed masses of Scotland, to demand He had no solution to offer, and he said "we can't raise against the means Test, the Dole Cuts, the increased relief for semi-starving men, women people's hopes". We have to make propaganda and say Anomalies Act was intensifying. The stage was set and children, and to put certain carefully thought clearly there can be no solution to the problem of for an all-Scottish Hunger March to raise the fight out proposals for work schemes which would help unemployment under capitalism. We have to argue that to a still greater height. The famous Hunger to give employment to tens of thousands of the alongside the fight to improve the conditions of the March in June was the result. unemployed army; to demand the ending of the unemployed we must fight all the time to change the Not an isolated event, not a stunt, but the logi- embargo on Russian goods which was preventing system. That is the only solution..." cal development, the coping stone, of the mass employment for 60,000 Engineering workers local activities throughout the winter and spring. Les Foster (including many in Scotland) because of stoppage The preparations for the March were more of Soviet orders. They marched for work, for thorough and wide-spread than anything hitherto. bread, and for maintenance of all unemployed. Not simply to organise contingents of marchers, The marching unemployed were the delegates, but to organise a mass working-class support for the representatives of their four hundred thou- the March contingents, to bring factory workers, sand unemployed comrades at home. Every trade, Trade Union branches, Co-operatives, Trades every industry, was present. The workers of Councils into the March, to get active support in Scotland stood behind the Marchers, stood behind popularising the Demands. their demands for work and maintenance, stood Hunger Marchers' Councils were organised in behind their Hunger 'Trek to Edinburgh. the areas composed of delegates from as many Our Demands working-class organisations as possible; hundreds of March Recruiting Meetings were held; Trade (1) Abolition of the Means Test. Union Branches circularised, and in some cases (2) That children of unemployed be granted 1s 6d visited; public correspondence initiated with Sir per week extra, and that adult unemployed and adult Godfrey Collins and with Town Councils and dependants be granted 3s per week extra. These Trades Councils on the main routes to Edinburgh; increases to apply to all unemployed whether in receipt resolutions passed from a very large number of of statutory or transitional payments or in receipt of Trade Union branches and from meetings, Public Assistance. demanding that Collins be present; Town Councils (3) That rents be reduced 25 per cent. and Councillors deputised; a regular series of (4) That the Social Service Schemes and all propagandist and agitational activities which had voluntary labour connected with the same be a tremendous result in focusing attention on the repudiated. In addition, the lifting of the Embargo on March and in breaking down the former isolation the Soviet Union and conclusion of a new Trade of the unemployed from the employed and trade Agreement. union workers. variant • volume 2 number 15 • Summer 2002 • page 31

All this time the recruiting for the March con- as to whether Mr Citrine4 or the TUC endorsed or tingents was going on, the Field Kitchens were did not endorse the March. prepared, money and foodstuffs collected—a sig- No! The workers realised instinctively that this nificant feature, indicating the progress made in was their own people who were marching, their breaking down isolation, was the very fine own class, kith and kin; it was "their side", and response from Trade Union branches and anybody who opposed it was on the other side. Co-operatives in sending donations and passing determined. Not a single contingent had accom- The class character of the March broke resolutions demanding that Collins come to modation guaranteed, not a single contingent through all the flimsy arguments of the Labour Edinburgh. The Recruiting Form, as follows, ena- entertained the slightest doubt that it would be and Trade Union leaders and showed, as in a light- bled the best type of Marchers to be recruited, secured. They knew that the pressure of the mass- ening flash, where they stood—on the other side and prevented our enemies saying that anyone es was something that no Town Council nor of the barricade. was mislead. bureaucratic Provost could long stand against. In this pamphlet there is not one-tenth of the In Glasgow there was a tremendous send-off; space required to tell of one-half of the episodes of this memorable March, of the heroism and SCOTTISH HUNGER MARCH thousands of people gathered at George Square; and as the March started—headed by Comrades determination that kept men plugging on with Declaration Form McGovern; Heenan of the ILP; Aitken Ferguson, feet torn, blistered, bloody, even when their com- May, 1933. Communist Party; Henderson, Glasgow Organiser rades and leaders wanted them to take a bus into I of the NUWM; and Harry McShane, Scottish Corstorphine; of comrade Heenan, whose feet were in a terrible condition and who wrenched his Name ...... Organiser of the NUWM and the March—there was a great send-off. All the road out to ankle six miles from Corstorphine, but who obsti- Address ...... Bishopbriggs a huge demonstration accompanied nately refused even to consider giving up, and the Marchers, then lined the roadside, and kept tramping doggedly on. How can one tell of promise that while on the March 1 will observe strict cheered the March contingent as it set off on its the humour, the healthy, salty humour, that discipline, as I realise that unless discipline is observed first lap (Kilsyth). refused even to consider downheartedness even the greatest dangers will arise for the marchers. when tramping along at the end of a twenty-mile march through two hours of pelting rain? How can I also undertake to stay in Edinburgh until the main one write of the discipline, the comradeship, the body of marchers leave. I have been informed that The first barrier surmounted In this town the Provost and the Labour Town glowing loyalty of the marchers, that would have there are no guarantees about returning on any Council had refused any assistance whatever. "No inspired a dead man! particular day. I come on the march with that use the Marchers coming here"; Notting could be understanding, and will observe the agreement. done"; "Nobody wanted them"; etc. But what a I understand the significance of this march and fully reception at Kilsyth! The entire town, almost Into Edinburgh support the demands to the Government. without exception, turned out to greet the At 4pm, Sunday, 11th June, all the contingents Signed...... Marchers. the Town Council meeting scheduled reached the Central Meeting Place at for that night was hastily abandoned, and the Corstorphine. What a sight it was as each contin- NOTE— No one can be allowed on the march who has Councillors and Provost disappeared. Quarters gent marched in; what a cheer they got from the not filled in this form. were found for the men in the Salvation Army rest! headquarters; a gigantic meeting was held in the An especial welcome was given to the women The concentration against the Park by comrades McGovern, Heenan, McShane, marchers, whose spirit and determination were Ferguson; a unanimous vote of support for the marvellous. march Marchers was given. The staff work at Corstorphine was splendid. Never at any time has there been such concentra- The townspeople were ours—no doubt, hesita- Everything worked on ball bearings. The tion against any March as against this. Capitalist tion or dubiety about where they stood in relation Marchers' own Field Kitchens were in full blast, Town councils, Labour leaders, Trades Union to the March. They, like the overwhelming mass of and in an incredibly short time the whole army bureaucrats, with the Press, Police and Sir the workers everywhere the March touched, solid- was fed. Godfrey Collins joining in, all united in an unholy ly supported the Hunger Marchers. The whistle goes —Pheep-eep; the contingents alliance denouncing the March, refusing any This story of Kilsyth is the experience of every form up; then, headed by their bands, off they go assistance, trying to intimidate the workers with contingent—barriers erected by the enemies, into Edinburgh—one thousand strong—in military their refusal to grant either recognition, food or crumbling before the surge of working-class mass formation and discipline. accommodation. All along the routes, at the sug- pressure aroused by the very appearance of the The Edinburgh workers sent out a strong con- gested stopping places—Kilsyth, Bo'ness, Airdrie, Marchers. tingent to meet us and march in with us. The etc.—there was an obstinate refusal to grant All along the route, in every town and village, streets were lined all the way into Edinburgh with accommodation for the Marchers, a concentrated in almost every cottage the workers came out to sympathetic workers, tremendous enthusiasm pre- campaign of opposition and vilification on the welcome the marching unemployed. Coppers, vailing. part of the capitalists, the Labour and Trade which could ill be spared, clinked into the boxes; The result was that, seeing what was happen- Union leaders. women with tears in their eyes, wishing the men ing, the Authorities decided on a cautious policy. The situation was sharpening, the sides were "good luck" and dropping their contributions into We knew beforehand that we could be allowed becoming clearer defined. On the one hand the the collecting tins. peacefully to enter Edinburgh. Before the Unemployed Workers united with the Trade No hair-splitting arguments among the masses, Glasgow contingent left, letters were sent to Sir Union branches and Co-operative Guilds and fac- no asking themselves whether the Right Godfrey Collins, the Ministry of Labour, the tory workers organising the March; on the other Honourable Ceo. Lansbury MP3 Department of Health and the Education the capitalist Press and Police, plus the capitalist had given the March his pontifical blessing or not, no question Department, asking them to hear a deputation on councillors and Labour and Trade Union leaders Monday 12th June. Three telegrams were received mobilising and uniting to prevent and destroy the on the road—one from each Department—offer- March. ing to meet a deputation on Monday at 11am at the Ministry of Labour Office, 44 Drumsheugh The March Begins Gardens. We had no reply from Sir Godfrey Word came through on 6th June that Aberdeen Collins. These telegrams were the first recognition and Dundee contingents had set out to link up of the March; it was a break through. with Fife in Kirkcaldy. The March was on! The Ayrshire contingent linked up with Lanarkshire The marchers in Edinburgh and marched via Shotts and East Calder. The marchers had now arrived at their destina- Renfrewshire and Dumbartonshire came to tion, despite opposition and rumours to the effect Glasgow and set out via Coatbridge, Airdrie, that the March would be called off we marched to Bathgate, and Broxburn; with them marched a the Mound, where the formation was still main- women's section. tained. About 20,000 people had assembled here. The Glasgow men set out via Kilsyth and So dense was the crowd that many could not hear Falkirk, where they were joined by Stirlingshire, the speeches which were delivered. Councillor on to Bo'ness and Corstorphine. Paton gave a speech of welcome, which was By Friday afternoon all the contingents were replied to by McGovern, Heenan, Ferguson and under way. Along the four main highroads to McShane. The Marchers then went to the ILP Hall Edinburgh trumped steadily the Hunger at Bonnington Road, where a meal was provided Marchers, bands playing, flags flying, cheery and by the Edinburgh Reception Committee. page 32 • variant • volume 2 number 15 • Summer 2002

The first concession by the Authorities in the kitchens and received tea, a sausage roll and two Edinburgh was when the police agreed to lift the slices of bread, and again settled down in their places ban on collections in the streets, after the to consume their meal. Every corner of the square was Marchers had declared their intention of collect- utilised, and quite a number of men sat themselves ing from everyone who was prepared to assist the down on the steps at the west door of St. Giles March. Cathedral, while a score or so others, including a While feeding was going on, a deputation number of women, sat down on the step around the approached the police on the question of accom- Buccleuch Monument. After a while, some sought modation. They came back with a report to the shade in the far corner near the Signet Library. Some, effect that we could have Waverley Market. The more active, busied themselves in helping with the deputation had raised the question of blankets or further distribution of tea, whilst from parts of the boards being put on the stone floor. This request encampment came snatches of songs. Large numbers was refused, and the deputation turned down the of the public viewed the scene, although they were not offer of the Waverley Market. encouraged by the police to loiter. In the bright The struggle had now begun! The Marchers sunshine the Marchers were a colourful gathering, with were lined up and marched off. In reply to enquir- red flavours very much to the fore, while the owners lay ies as to where they were going, it was stated that down in ranks, and the appearance of a military they were going to the police station. The sugges- removal of anomalies in the scales of relief paid bivouac was enhanced when the 'flying squad' of tion was then made that we should sleep on Leith in various localities. A protest was made against cyclists arrived and 'stacked' machines."—Edinburgh Links. We said we would sleep where we could be the interference of the Ministry of Health last Press seen. December when Glasgow Public Assistance After waiting here some time, it was decided When the Marchers reached the Post Office, Committee recommended an increase for children that we go to the Meadows where the men could instead of going to the Police Station, they turned of unemployed during Christmas and New Year have a rest and hear a report of the deputation. along Princess Street, picked a place past the weeks. Mound, took off their kits and sat down! Within a In regard to education, the deputation asked few minutes news came along that McGovern and They march through Holyrood for more schools and a supply of better boots and The Marchers' road to the Edinburgh Meadows McShane were wanted by two men in a car. Word books for the children of the unemployed. lay down that historic thoroughfare, the Royal was sent back, "We are too tired, let them come They raised the question of the treatment of Mile, leading to the historic Royal Palace of here". They came along and told us they had the Hamilton "squatters" and stated that they Holyrood.5 secured the Oddfellows Hall, which we decided to should be properly housed by this time. Down go the swinging columns, down right to accept. They also protested against the embargo on the gates of Holyrood. "Turn to the right", says a When, however, the hall was filled up, there Soviet Russia, which is aggravating the unemploy- police official. The March leaders turn a deaf ear. was still a considerable number without accom- ment problem in this country. "Straight On!" "Straight on" it is, right through modation. In order to find accommodation the The deputation was told that their representa- the Palace grounds itself. The pompous official in Assistant Chief Constable and Aitken Ferguson tions were noted and would be sent to the proper charge at the Palace almost took an apoplectic fit! went to the Melbourne Hall which is owned by quarter. This was described by the deputation as His eyes literally bulged out with mingled aston- the Scottish Socialist Party. The Assistant Chief very unsatisfactory. After further discussion, the ishment and horror. Constable appealed for the hall on the grounds of deputation rejoined the Marchers outside. In go the columns, a mile of flaming, flaunting humanity, and offered to pay for it, but was met scarlet banners, headed by the Maryhill Band with a point blank refusal. The Marchers that playing Connolly's Rebel Song as if their lungs were left ultimately slept in the police muster In Parliament Square would burst. What a sight!! rooms. It was two o'clock in the morning before all In the meantime, while we were engaged in these The proletariat, the indomitable proletariat in the Marchers were sheltered. activities, the cooks (in accordance with a pre- arranged plan) had removed the cooking utensils their ragged clothes, have stepped into the most to Parliament Square. Just before two o'clock a sacred precincts in all Scotland! The marchers go to the Scottish large lorry arrived on the scene, laden with camp The walls and grounds of the Royal Palace of kitchens, dixies and canteens, large supplies of Holyrood—that innermost sanctuary of all the Office Royal parasites in Scotland's history—echo the On Monday after breakfast (which we had at pies and other foods and trestles and boards. tramp of the first legions of the masses. The walls Bonnington Road) we marched to Drumsheugh The three camp-kitchens were soon belching and ground of Holyrood that heard the music of Gardens where our deputation was to be heard. forth large clouds of smoke. Gallons and gallons Rizzio, and Mary Queen of Scots, hear the song of The Marchers sat outside while the deputation of tea were made, while boxes containing a large that murdered Irish leader, "The Rebel Song", was being heard. The deputation was inside the amount of food were unloaded. Some six or eight and then the thunderous battle cry of the world's building for two hours. It was composed of women assisted the Marchers' own cooks in pre- workers, 'The Internationale". Comrades McGovern, Ross of Lanarkshire, paring and serving the food. Never has Holyrood heard or witnessed any- McPherson of Fife, Harley of Greenock, Kelly of The unusual sight in this historical Square thing like this. No wonder the capitallsts are the NUR, and McShane. The deputation protested attracted large crowds of passers-by, and they shocked to the marrow! Is this a herald of the at the absence of Sir Godfrey Collins; and after seemed inclined to linger to watch the proceed- approaching storm which will shatter their domi- much discussion, persuaded the officials to tele- ings; but a large body of police arrived on the nation for ever? Murdered Connolly lives again; phone through to Collins in London. He persisted scene and kept them in motion. his spirit, his song, his memory inspires these in his refusal to meet the Marchers. The deputa- Hunger Marchers as they swing through the tion expressed its willingness to wait in grounds and then pass through the other gate. Edinburgh until he came. In the absence of On to the Meadows, where the men rested, Collins, the deputation proceeded to put the A striking scene heard a report of the deputation and a statement Marchers' demands before the permanent offi- "A remarkable scene was presented when the Marchers on the tasks now to be undertaken by Comrades cials present. encamped in the square in orderly lines. Within a few minutes, with packs off, they lined up in long queues at McShane, McGovern and Ferguson. It is significant that although the Marchers The deputation were able to smash the Press boycott on all other The deputation demanded the abolition of the activities relating to the March, not a single capi- Anomalies Act and the Means Test. They stressed talist Daily mentioned the March through the fact that women should not be compelled to Holyrood. Only the Daily Worker reported this go into domestic service, and that there should be event. Both during the preparations for the an end to voluntary labour under the Social March, then during the converging of the Service Schemes which, they said, was getting Marchers on Corstorphine, and finally over the people to do work for nothing and the thin end of historic three days and the return, the Daily the wedge for the introduction of compulsory Worker featured the March. We believe, however, labour in return for Unemployment Benefit. They the Holyrood Palace incident itself is sufficient asked for extensive work schemes such as the con- commentary on the value of the workers' own struction of the Forth Road bridge and a new Press. arterial road through Glasgow to be put in hand: all work to be paid at trade-union rates of wages and conditions. So far as the Department of Princes Street That night another desperate attempt was made Health was concerned, the deputation asked for to disorganise and disperse the March. an extension of benefits under the National Accommodation was again refused; no hall, noth- Health Insurance scheme, and pressed for the variant • volume 2 number 15 • Summer 2002 • page 33

ing could be found; if the Marchers cared, the morning after sleeping on the street: Meadows were available to them. “Mr John McGovern and Mr McShane were among the But it didn't demoralise these Marchers. After first to rise from their open-air ‘bunks’, and by eight an indignant, gigantic Protest Meeting at the o‘clock most of the men were recovering some of their Mound, another deputation returned from meet- spiritedness which they have displayed, and were ing the Authorities. "Only the streets are left to sitting against the railings, laughing and jesting, while us", they reported. A roar from the Marchers and supplies of food were rushed from the field-Kitchens at the workers of Edinburgh—"All right, we’ll sleep Simon Square and tea was being served steaming hot in the street; but by God, we'll pick the streets to from large and well-filled dixie cans. A number were sleep in!" too much overcome by fatigue to bother about food. Form up! Off to—where? Direct to Princes Street directly below the flood-lit Edinburgh Castle, directly opposite the plutocratic ‘The greatest street! Conservative and Liberal Clubs and the palatial hotels! The whistle goes, "Packs off! Make your- Look at it now!’ selves comfortable, boys; here's your bed for the Mr Harry Mc Shane and Mr Aitken Ferguson, another night!" member of the Council in charge of the marchers, in Never in all its history has Edinburgh wit- conversation with an Evening News representative in nessed anything like what followed. Right along Princess Street this morning, said they regarded the the South pavement in the most aristocratic street proudly showed to his leaders. action of the authorities in not giving them in Britain lay the Hunger Marchers—blankets and accommodation last night as a trumpery evasion, and It is impossible for passers-by to walk along the area of newspapers spread out for mattresses! The they thought it was clear that the authorities were footpath occupied by the marchers. Walking along on wealthy dress-suited plutocracy as they came from making efforts to drive them out of the city. They were the carriageway one heard snatches of conversation: their clubs and banquets, goggled, absolutely gog- determined that they would not be driven out in that gled! Here are excerpts from the Edinburgh Press, 'Slept well?' way, and even if they had to ‘grow into the ground’ they which showed their amazement: 'How did ye enjoy yer feather bed?' would not continue to make their sleeping quarters in Princes Street. The previous night, the police had 'Did ye feel a draught coming in during the night?' obtained them accommodation within ten minutes. Press reports Now the authorities were prepared to allow nearly "At a fairly late hour there was no sign of them A woman drummer 1,000 men and women to remain exposed to the dispersing, but it was a surprise to the large number of They were a good-natured crowd, laughing and joking. elements of a night in the open without regard to citizens remaining on Princes Street to see them spread An early morning urn of steaming tea was brought to health. out along the south pavement, set down their them, and they proceeded to entertain themselves— ‘Here is the greatest street in Europe,’ added Mr equipment, and prepare to stay there. and passers-by—until their breakfast arrived. They Ferguson; ‘just look at it now!’ The spectacle was amazing. Behind the huddled sang, flutes were played, while a women put on the big Mr McShane said he had taken part in five Hunger marchers was the Castle, brilliantly floodlit, while on drum and started banging it while another clashed Marches altogether, and in not one city had he had the north pavement strong forces of police patrolled cymbals; there was an attempt at dancing, and a youth such an experience as to have been compelled to and kept the crowds of bewildered theatre-goers and showed how a drum-major's staff should be swung. remain in the streets all night. Right at the western end of the camp, Mr McGovern others on the move. Motorists stopped to survey the Mr Ferguson cynically recalled that a week or two ago MP, one of the leaders, lay 'abed' cleaning his shoes, extraordinary scene before they were moved on, and Mr McGovern had been invited to attend the General when an Evening Dispatch representative made a tour practically all traffic—quite considerable for a time— Assembly in Edinburgh as the guest of Mr John Buchan. of the marchers this morning. By his side, Mr McShane, had to use the north side of the street to avoid the Mr McGovern had now visited Edinburgh, and was another of the leaders, lay stretched out."—Edinburgh equipment of the marchers. given the hospitality of Princess Street along with the Dispatch This surprising manoeuvre suffered no interference marchers, instead of Holyrood Palace. from the police. The marchers were orderly, though several high-spirited sections were occasionally noisy. The marchers’ strength Were they demoralised? Did the Authorities' plan ‘Here We Are And Here We Stay’ succeed of intimidating and frightening the Marchers Walking until dawn ‘In view of this new situation’, added Mr Mc Shane, ‘Mr by forcing them to sleep out on the pavements? No! "With banners stacked against the railings of the McGovern had been contemplating remaining in gardens and the last tunes played on the flute bands, It was the Authorities who were demoralised and Edinburgh instead of attending the House of Commons some of the marchers equipped with proper sleeping panicky. The Marchers—men and women—inspired by for the unemployment debate tomorrow. The bags turned in for the night, with shoes, etc., set on the their cause, feeling and knowing they had the support Marchers’ Council had been considering the matter, and kerb. Others paraded up and down amongst the of the working masses everywhere, were more were of the opinion that Mr McGovern should go to sleeping forms, but after a couple of hours nearly determined, more united, more militant than ever. Their London to bring attention to the plight of the marchers everyone was either asleep or dozing. spirit of self-imposed discipline had been tested and from a national platform. emerged with flying colours. The first hour or so was passed in proper camp-fire 'So far', said Mr McShane, 'here we are and here we stay manner with, occasionally, songs and choruses, whilst So determined were the men that they beat the police until another decision is reached. We can breakfast, remarks such as 'Let's put out the lights and go to objections to having their meals in Princes Street and dinner or tea here, and the men require a rest. They can sleep', greeted the extinguishing of the Castle had their breakfast and dinner there. Princes Street— have that rest in Princes Street. We have decided to give floodlighting system. It was indeed the 'Lights Out', which had been turned into a dormitory by the actions them a long lie in "bed" this morning' —Edinburgh however, and the camp became quiet, patrolled at the of the Authorities—was now turned into an open-air Evening News distance of the width of the street by the police"— dining place by the Marchers themselves! Edinburgh Dispatch By this time the Press, that tried to ignore the March, The Town Clerk wants a guarantee "Historic Princes Street has known many unusual sights, was pestering us for interviews. The following from the It was clear that the March had stirred but that presented this morning when the marchers' Edinburgh Evening News of 13th June is an example, Edinburgh to its very depths. Nothing like it had camp, extending for over two hundred yards, from and explains to some extent the situation on the ever occurred to disturb the repose of Scotland's midway between Hanover and Frederick Streets to Capital. The job was now to mobilise Scotland to midway between Castle Street, was unique. organise the sympathy and support which existed It had to be seen to be believed. Men and women were to carry on a fight in every county, town and vil- rising from their hard couches while citizens were lage for the development of schemes of work and passing to their work by motor car, tram and on foot. relief scales. Men shaved with their mirrors supported on the A deputation on behalf of the Marchers, con- railings of West Princes Street Gardens, which were sisting of the Rev. Mr Marwick and Capt. JR 6 kept closed, and others washed and dried themselves White , interviewed the Authorities on the ques- at a fountain in the middle of the marchers' tion of accommodation for the Marchers, but with- encampment. Policemen in twos and threes marched out success. up and down. Then it was decided that the March should approach the PAC on this and other questions. A One man slept in a bathing suit, with a newspaper as a very heated discussion ensued between the mattress and a single blanket as cover. Another rose Marchers' deputation and the PAC officer in this morning and wrote a song, 'For Liberty', which he Edinburgh, Mr Douglas, a most impudent and page 34 • variant • volume 2 number 15 • Summer 2002

self-satisfied individual, who informed the depu- Our lessons tation that the PAC was open day and night for The March has shown the tremendous militancy applications. and feeling for Unity which exists all over On the return of the deputation, they were Scotland. It has demonstrated deafly before the informed that the Assistant Chief Constable and eyes of all, that while the masses of the workers the Town Clerk Depute had proposals to make to are steadily coming together, the leadership and the March leadership. These proposals were: the policy of the Labour Party and Trade Unions They left the building evidently dissatisfied with the in the main supports Capitalism. (1) That the Authorities were prepared to pay the result of their mission. Their demands were for food Balance (over £80) towards the cost of Transport and accommodation for the men, or, alternatively, for of the Marchers returning to their homes; free transport for the marchers to their homes. (2) That this would only be done provided that a Thanks to the citizens guarantee was given that no more Marches to Mr Aitken Ferguson, on behalf of the Marchers' Council, Edinburgh would take place. stated that he would like to convey his appreciation of They were told promptly and straightly that there the response which the citizens of Edinburgh had given would be no such guarantee given. to the appeal of the marchers, and he mentioned that notes plans were being considered for a much bigger march 1. Public Assistance Committee—PAC's were to Edinburgh in the near future. appointed by local authorities to administer The PAC bluff called the granting of relief for the unemployed. Immediately they left, the marchers formed up Chalked on the causeway in Simon Square, in bold and set off to the PAC Office. The March was call- letters, was the message: 'Edinburgh Workers Solidarity 2. 1931, unable to deal with the economic crisis — ing the bluff of Mr Douglas and the PAC. Six hun- Wins Scottish Hunger Marchers a Bed' obviously an Ramsey MacDonald, the then Labour Prime dred Marchers, supported by Edinburgh workers, appreciation of the local efforts made for the comfort Minister, dissolved the Labour Government and formed a coalition government with the lined up in order to make the individual applica- of the marchers last night"—Edinburgh Evening News It should be mentioned, however, that when Tories and Liberals—the National Government. tion for accommodation which Mr Douglas had negotiations broke down, the deputation gave the boasted of being ready to receive—and the result? 3. Leader of the Labour Party. Authorities an hour to provide a meal, failing Complete and total collapse of the Edinburgh 4. TUC General Secretary. which -in view of the fact that the Public PAC. Assistance Committee had refused to accept 5. Being a Glaswegian McShane can be forgiven for A tremendous outburst of anger from the applications for relief—we would take other steps confusing Queens Park with The Meadows. Queens Marchers at the refusal of the PAC to do anything Park is the name of the park beside Holyrood to secure a meal. 'This had the effect of having preceded a huge mass demonstration of Palace, while The Meadows are on Edinburgh's the Authorities telling us to spend the £30 we had Edinburgh workers who came to join the Southside. earmarked for the buses. When we said —What Marchers. Back to Princes Street, and then at about the buses, then? we were told confidentially 6. Capt JR White was an Irish Protestant, republican 11pm, a terrific demonstration through the City. and socialist. He organised the Irish Citizen Army that the buses would be all right. Later a meeting Edinburgh was out to a man—roused, militant. defend strikers from attack in the 1913 Dublin of Marchers was held at which a report was given. The courage and determination of the Marchers lockout. This body later formed the nucleus of An effigy of Sir Godfery Collins was burnt. A fur- had lit a flame of struggle among the masses of Connolly's Citizen Army. White fought with the ther meal was provided, while a deputation went the Edinburgh workers. Irish Republican Brigade in the Spanish Civil War, to the Ministry of Labour to raise the question of Never was there such a turnout and such became increasingly dismayed by the manipula- paying benefit to the Marchers for days they were tion of the International Brigades by the enthusiasm. The Marchers and workers were one, on the march. No progress was made here. About Communists and resigned his command and fused in a common struggle against the capitalist 5.30 the buses arrived for the Marchers, without worked for the anarcho-syndicalist CNT. governors. any guarantee being given and without any pay- It was a staggering blow to the authorities—a ment being made by the Marchers. The working victory thenceforth was assured. Halls were class had broken through! A smashing victory had speedily secured by the workers and the Marchers been obtained! At the last meeting of the were housed that night. Marchers in Edinburgh, when the final report was given, telegrams of support came from all quar- The final day ters—Notts and Derby, Teeside, London, Glasgow. The next day was the question of driving home A telegram from Calton announcing reinforce- the advantages gained. The following report from ments ready to leave drew a storm of cheers. the Edinburgh Evening News of 14th June Where was the guarantee of no future Hunger explains fairly well the situation on the March? Dropped like a hot brick in the face of the Wednesday morning. Marchers' refusal and the solidarity of the work- ers! "Mr McGovern MP and Mr McShane proceeded to the City Chambers in the forenoon for the purpose of making representations with regard to the position of The marchers come home the marchers in the city. And the welcome given to the returning There was being held at the time a meeting of the Lord Marchers! In Glasgow, for example, the streets Provost's Committee of the Town Council, which had were black with people waiting for the buses; been specially called to consider the situation. The meetings lasting until well after midnight were meeting was private, and at the close the Press held in the presence of tremendous, cheering representatives were informed that no statement crowds. The very mention of Unity and the United would be made regarding the proceedings. Front invariably drew tumultuous cheers. Mr McGovern and Mr McShane were not received by Edinburgh capitalists hope they have seen the the Committee, but after the meeting, consultations last of the Hunger Marchers. Their hopes are in took place between them and Mr Mackinnon, the vain and doomed to disappointment. Depute Chief Constable.