Union of Democratic Mineworkers

The Union of Democratic Mineworkers is a British trade union for coal miners, which is based in Nottinghamshire, England. It was established on the 11 December 1984 during the UK miners' strike (1984-1985) by miners who wished to defy the policy of the National Union of Mineworkers, and its leader, Arthur Scargill. In its defence, the UDM pointed to Scargill's refusal to call a ballot on strike action and to the widespread opposition to the strike which existed in Nottinghamshire. Outside its own area, however, the union was widely regarded as strike-breaking association and was greeted with hostility and resentment by the strikers.

Related Topics:
Trade union - Coal miners - Nottinghamshire - 11 December - 1984 - UK miners' strike (1984-1985) - National Union of Mineworkers - Arthur Scargill

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The UDM was widely criticised in March 2004 after it was revealed that its top two officials received pay and benefits of over £150,000 each, despite membership having fallen to 1,431. The union's relationship to Vendside, a firm which specialises in obtaining compensation from the British Government for former miners suffering from mining-related ailments, has also been widely criticised.

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