A look back at the Imperial Typewriters Hull factory protest after closure announcements. Workers demonstrated defiance on Hedon Road.
About 75 percent of workers were unskilled. They assembled typewriters for global sale. The company was American-owned. MPs and union officials launched a campaign to prevent closure. They created a plan to save the Hull factory quickly.
Owners Litton Industries said the plants were not profitable. Three hundred fifty union workers went to meet Tony Benn in London. They paid £3 each for the trip. They marched with banners and flags to Westminster. The Trade and Industry Minister expressed his support. He said it was wrong to discard people. The meeting seemed positive at the time.
The factory sadly closed despite their efforts. Staff occupied the factory on the closure day. They began a sit-in protest. People sent food and support to Hedon Road. The protest lasted four and a half months. Seventy-six workers left the plant on July 16, 1975.
Workers draped a Union Jack over a mock coffin. This symbolized the end of their fight. Mrs. Clare Tate said money shortage forced them to leave. A High Court order did not cause them to quit.
A small staff dismantled the factory. They auctioned off the equipment. The factory shop floor was empty by December 30. The building then closed permanently.