Historical and contemporary issues in the catching sector of the British fishing industry

Abstract

This thesis presents an historical examination of industrial relations. in the catching sector of the British fishing industry during a period of structural change and decline. The review and analysis cover the emergence and development of both the trawler companies and the trade unions representing employees in the major fishing ports of Aberdeen, Grimsby and Hull. Throughout the twentieth century, this sector of the industry has encountered growth, change and decline but the major characteristic of the employment relationship between employers and trawler-crews, namely casualism, has persisted, a condition of affairs which has been subjected to concerted criticism and challenge only in recent years. The thesis offers some tentative explanations of the events and issues discussed. The theoretical perspective adopted by the author shaped the research methods of the study which incorporate documentary analysis, participant observation and interviews, Hypotheses are formulated concerning the conservatism of the employment relationship in the trawler companies, the ability of the trade unions to modify maritime labour practices and terms and conditions of employment of trawler crews, and the role of the state in these processes. Whilst the hypotheses appear to be confirmed, the conclusions are tentative and stress the need for further research.