ABSTRACT

The idea that troops could be used on a regular basis in industrial disputes is publicly rejected by virtually everyone connected with such matters. Since the First World War, troops have been used to offset the impact of disputes which, almost invariably have been a challenge or obstacle to government political and industrial policy. During the 1920s mining industry crises, the mines were under government control. Two statutes deal directly with the use of troops in industrial disputes, the Emergency Powers Acts 1920 and 1964. In addition, there is residual authority to use the miliary in aid of the civil power under the royal prerogative. Co-ordination between the military and the police is a basic requisite in practice for military aid to the civil power. In addition to the Emergency Powers Acts, however, both of which relate directly to industrial disputes, there are certain residual powers.