麻豆约拍

In a special programme to mark the 40th anniversary of The Winter of Discontent, Chris Stuart asks his guests to share their memories of this turbulent time in British political and economic history. Public sector pay strikes brought the UK to a standstill as tens of thousands of workers showed their anger at the government's attempt to impose a 5% pay ceiling.

Cardiff was among the cities hosting mass demonstrations as workers ranging from NHS staff to grave diggers went on strike in the biggest display of industrial action since the General Strike in 1926. As rubbish piled up in the streets, the opposition - led by Margaret Thatcher - attacked the Labour Government over its refusal to call a state of emergency. It was a dispute that would have a seismic affect, leading to the downfall of Callaghan and his government and consigning Labour to opposition for the next 19 years.

Joining Chris in studio to discuss the Winter of Discontent 40 years on are Lynn Abell, a former nurse and union rep; Dr Kim Howells, then working with the National Union of Mineworkers; former political editor and broadcaster Glyn Mathias and historian Professor Dai Smith.