Page 8 - A Century Of Service
P. 8

1939-45 — a time of war, and federation reorganisation
 IN 1939 the thoughts of all again turned to war.
However, in the ranks of the federation there was a defeat — the Forward Movement was turned down. This would have meant subscriptions would rise to cover sickness, death and third party liability cover and legal advice for members.
This defeat left the federation in disarray and led indirectly to the reorganisation of 1940.
Members were now members of the federation attached to a branch. Sickness, accident benefit and a form of third party insurance were finally introduced. A head office was also established and a General Secretary appointed.
The 1941 conference was dominated by the war. Motions debated included one to the effect that traders serving in the forces should be able to re-occupy their stalls after the war.
In 1943 the Benevolent Fund was set up to help members in need.
The 1945 conference was notable for more than one reason.
The number of members on the National Executive Committee was increased to 12 and the idea of obtaining a parliamentary representative was discussed.
Allegations that black marketeering was rife in markets were debated. As delegates left the conference room following the heated session, the news came through that Germany had surrendered.
 Loughborough, Leicestershire 1942.
              Contemporary events
 1939 • 1940 •
1941 • 1943 •
1945 •
 Germany invades Poland and Britain declares war.
Vivien Leigh wins an Oscar for Gone With The Wind. Troops are evacuated from the beaches of Dunkirk.
London is hit by the Blitz. Germany invades Russia.
Bevin Boys are called up to work in the mines. Victory in North Africa.
Allies cross the Rhine.
Germany surrenders.
Labour wins a landslide election victory.
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