This year marks four decades since the haunting clash at Orgreave, a painful chapter in our history where striking miners and South Yorkshire Police faced off in a tragic confrontation.

The scars of this bloody conflict, born from the decline of the coal industry, still linger in the mining communities and amongst the 7 million people residing within the former coalfields of England, Scotland, and Wales.

The demise of the UK’s mining industry, overseen by Margaret Thatcher, especially the crushing defeat of the Miner’s Strike in 1985, left indelible damage on countless communities nationwide. I’ve witnessed firsthand the generational suffering in Sheffield directly linked to the decisions made under Thatcher’s watch.

That’s why I stand united with my Labour colleagues, advocating for a comprehensive investigation into the events at Orgreave. We must unearth the truth and bring closure to those affected.

Labour is committed to eradicating the unjust blacklisting of trade unionists, ensuring that such practices never tarnish Britain again. We will enforce the law rigorously and keep anti-blacklisting measures abreast of the evolving nature of work and technological advancements.

As we reflect on four decades since Orgreave, we owe it to the resilient mining communities – the powerhouse that fuelled Britain – to match their ambition for revitalizing their areas. Under a Labour government, our industrial heartlands will receive the support they deserve, fostering a thriving economy that uplifts living standards and generates quality jobs.

Together, let’s build a future where growth is synonymous with improved lives and where Labour’s commitment to robust workers’ rights paves the way for a flourishing, high-wage economy that benefits all.