London Socialist Historians Group
Press release 18th June
Contact Keith Flett 07803 167266
Historians call for release of Orgreave papers and independent inquiry 40 years on
The London Socialist Historians Group which organises the socialist history seminar at the Institute of Historical Research has said that on the 40th anniversary of Orgreave it is time for all official papers on the event to be released and an independent inquiry set up.
The failure of the Government to act shows disrespect to the miners who were at Orgreave 40 years ago, prevents lessons being learnt on the police riot that took place, and means that the history of the event may not ever be fully told
The historians say that those who were active in the strike and at Orgreave in particular have many questions about what took place that remain officially unanswered.
There is also a matter of recent history involved. While historians will in due course write histories of the miners strike- many contemporary accounts already exist-such an exercise would produce much more accurate history if the matter was reviewed while many of those involved are still alive and active.
The LSHG has called for all official papers relating to Orgreave to be released into the public domain and for these to form part of an independent inquiry
London Socialist Historians organiser Dr Keith Flett said, it’s not just a case of the Government having something to hide but more a signal that they are not really interested or bothered to find out exactly what did take place in an important moment in recent British history. It’s almost as if the history of working people doesn’t warrant too much concern. We don’t agree
Orgreave Truth and Justice Campaign
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