Depot Meeting held on Tuesday, Jan 10th, 1950.

The meeting opened at 10.3 with a short report of the Branch Meeting held at W’boro on Jan 2nd.

Suggestions for improving conditions were asked about.

The first proposed by Bro Taylor & seconded by Bro Sanders F. was:

Spreadovers to be paid from start to finish with a reasonable meal break.

No 2. Proposed by Bro Sanders K. & seconded by Bro Harris:

Weekend labour to be kept off duplicating and given supplementary or short rota turns of approx. 7-20 hrs.

No 3. Proposed by Bro H. Richardson & seconded by Bro Mumford:

That time be allowed for walking to Depot when relieved.

No 4. Proposed by Bro Harris & seconded by Bro Oliver:

That double decks operating P. Hire to have a conductor.

No 5. Proposed by Bro Mumford & seconded by Bro Harris.

That there be an improvement in the W.T. system such as priced tickets that would not need printing in the set right, also for an improvement in the cancellating system.

Other points discussed were that the Sunday dups and spare be worked on the same rotas each week to ensure that each man had a chance to do them in turn, the Rotas suggested were 10, 19, 29, these being late starts on the Monday, also any extra work on Saturdays to be given where possible to men who had not worked on rest day for that week.

It was also suggested that the supplementary duty sheet be posted 48 hrs before duties and could times be given when dups were likely to finish. That rest day man should be asked if they were willing to work.

That the dup be operated daily as well as spare with an additional timing at 7.44 a.m. from Simpsons Av to Rushden.

The Raunds & Ringstead journey at 5.20 on T 23 be put back to 5.33 and a saloon kept on Raunds – Thrapston all night.

That the Company be asked to take steps to have stoop signs erected in I’boro, Raunds, Rushden, Irchester and not forgetting Ser 10.

That it be made sure that Conductors boxes contained cash bags.

To see if more of the Set Right machines with white figures and black dials could be obtained.

That there was no further use for the Aux conductor on Wollaston.

Regarding the buses.

That the adjustable drivers seats in the saloons be heightened at the front and back rests made thinner.

That buses coming from other depots for any length of time to be fitted with destination rolls applicable to the area.

That there be an all round improvement in lights.

That some type of Sun-Visor be fitted to the DDs with new bodies. Also it was asked if the drivers mirrors could be fitted lower so not to obstruct drivers view when taking corners.

The Meeting closed at 11.50. C. E. Martin.

Accepted. Proposer G. Roast. Seconder H. Perkins.

Executive Meeting, Jan 12th, 1950. [This is at back of Minute Book]

Points raised for future policy.

1. That we have a straight shift system with a maximum unpaid time of 60 mins.

2. That the agreement be carried out regarding holiday cards and alterations.

3. Services – overloading.

4. Closing up of the holiday period.

5. Set rights. Payment to the clock and pay to a cashier. Withdrawal of W.T.s – Priority. Improvement in Cancellations.

6. Part-time - week and labour.

7. Full uniform.

8. Bus Stops in restricted areas.

9. Concession Tickets.

Depot Meeting held on Monday, Jan 30th, 1950.

The meeting opened at 10.45 (15 minutes late), with a small attendance.

The minutes of the depot meeting held on Jan 10th were read and accepted.

A report of the executive meeting held at N’ton on Jan 12th was given.

There was much discussion on the straight shift system which was one of points passed by the executive committee. It was agreed that this be left over to see what happened at the Branch Meeting to be held at Kettering on Monday, Feb 6th.

Casual labour was also discussed.

The committee was asked to put forward alterations to turns 12-21 to the Company.

The meeting closed at 11.50 a.m. C. E. Martin.

Accepted. Proposer Bro Roast. Seconder Bro Lamford.

Depot Meeting held on Thursday, March 9th, 1950.

The Meeting opened at 10.30 a.m. with Bros March & Billingham present.

The minutes of the depot meeting held on Jan 30th were read and accepted.

Bro March then outlined his plan for shortening the holiday period.

Following much discussion and many questions a proposal “That we do not accept the scheme” was moved by Bro Stacey and seconded by Bro Herbert. On a show of hands this was carried by 15 to 2.

Bro Stacey seconded by Bro Harris the moved a resolution “That we make an application for an increase in wages”.

This was carried unanimously.

A change in the report time of Turn 16 then came up for discussion and on the proposition of Bro Hood seconded by Bro Roast it was decided that the turn should be left as it was.

The committee was then asked to look into the Thrapston-Raunds duty for Rs on Sundays to see if time could be obtained for unloading, turning round and loading.

Bro Hood then asked if the Car Rota could be arranged so that the best buses were kept on the busiest turns instead of standing in the garage.

Time was then growing short and the meeting closed at 11.50. C. E. Martin.

Accepted. Proposer Bro G. Roast. Seconder Bro A. Harris.

Depot Meeting held on Wednesday, April 19, 1950.

The meeting opened at 10.30 with about a dozen members present.

The minutes of the previous meeting were read and accepted.

Bro Martin then announced that Bro Britchford was taking over as Depot Chairman, also as Executive Member.

The alterations to turns 1 & 4 were discussed and it was agreed to accept them providing T4 was paid through from 6.10 to 10.00 and an extra five minutes was paid on T1.

It was suggested that the 8.28 from Rushden to W’boro should also show N’pton from Rushden. It was asked if there was any reply from the Company regarding T12 & T21. There wasn’t and it was agreed they be put forward again. The Rota as a whole was then discussed and two proposals were put forward, the first proposal by Bro Roast & seconded by Bro Bailey was “That the Rota be left as it is”. The 2nd was “That the whole Rota be sorted out”, the first was defeated and the 2nd carried. It was reported that a meeting with Mr Lindsay, the Chief Engineer, was pending and suggestions for putting forward at this meeting were asked for.

Suggestions were:

Windscreen wiper blades to be renewed more often.

Headlights to receive more attention.

Cleaners to have wash leathers for cleaning. W.S.

Buses coming off the pit to have oil cleaned from steering wheel etc.

Cabs cleaned out periodically and disinfected.

A small window in the rear destination indicators of the new buses so as to enable the conductor to see what he was doing when changing same.

The bad working of some of the bells.

The mens toilet to be cleaned out more often and a more frequent change of towel.

This was about all the points raised for this meeting.

A point brought up about the Set Right was for white figures on black backgrounds. I had all ready raised this at an Ex Meeting and was told that more of these machines were being obtained. The PH grouping was discussed and it was agreed that the scheme should be worked as was set out, also for G2 men to accompany G1 men, and for a Rota to be put up.

It was asked if the committee would enquire why the daily dup was cut out and to see if an extra Sunday dup could be worked now that the better weather was coming.

The Meeting closed at 11.50. C. E. Martin.

Accepted. Proposed G. Roast. Seconded M. Robinson.

Special Depot Meeting held on Sep 15th, 1950.

The Meeting opened at 11.15 with Bro Clarke in the chair owing to Bro Britchford being on holiday. There were about 17 members present when the meeting opened, many more came in afterwards.

The reason for the meeting being held was: The engagement of a female to learn conducting.

This was discussed and the following proposition, Proposed by Bro Chown, Seconded by Bro Richardson H., was put forward “That we do not want any female conductors set on, apart from the on we already have”, this being Sr Cowell.

The proposal was carried.

Next, Proposed by Bro Lewis, Seconded by Bro Ingall “That no conductor teachers and female labour”. It was then proposed that the Committee contact Bro Billingham and fix a meeting with him and Bro Larch as soon as possible next week.

As Bro Arnsby was giving tuition at present to a female, it was agreed that she continue for the present duty and then suspend tuition until after the next meeting. C. E. Martin.

Depot Meeting held on Monday, Sep 18, 1950.

The meeting opened at 10.30 a.m. with Bro Billingham present as was requested at the meeting on Friday.

The minutes of this meeting were read.

Bro Richardson H. asked about the notice with regard to the proposing of the propositions passed on Friday being withheld until after this meeting.

Bro Clarke explained that following a telephone message from Bro Billingham, he spoke to several men who thought it best to take this course.

Bro Billingham then reported his meeting with Mr Howes and also explained the position as regards female labour.

Questions were asked and following these Bro Richardson H. proposed, Bro Harris seconded “That the Resolutions passed on Friday still stand”. This was carried by 17 votes to 5.

Bro Taylor then said there was quite a lot of talk of there being no confidence in the present Committee.

A vote of confidence was then proposed by Bro Wyman H. and seconded by Bro Clarke C. C. On the vote being taken 8 were for the motion and 15 against.

Bros Clarke and Martin then announced that they would resign.

Bro Britchford was not present as he was on holiday.

The meeting then closed. C. E. Martin.

Accepted. Proposed Bro Robinson. Seconded Bro H. Smith.

Following the vote of confidence being defeated the 3 members of the Committee resigned, and at the ballot taken on October 28th, 1950 for a new Committee the results were:

Depot Meeting held on November 14, 1950.

The meeting opened at 10.40 with Bro Richardson taking the Chair.

The minutes of the previous meeting were read and accepted. A report of the Executive Meeting held at N’pton on Nov 9 was given by Bro Richardson.

The mens toilet was discussed and it was agreed that the depot foreman be approached regarding its cleanliness.

The carrying of newspapers on the 4.10 p.m. from Kettering was also discussed, it was said that the size of these were excessive and was not leaving room for prams or passengers luggage. It was agreed that this matter be brought up with the Company.

It was asked if anyone paying in during office hours could have their money checked by the office staff instead of using the night safe. It was agreed that the office be approached regarding this. Duties 12, 21, 22 were discussed and it was asked if any improvements could be made to them. The journey at 5.33 from White’s Higham to Oval Rd was said to be very tight.

It was the asked that Bro March be approached to see if he had made any progress with T4 being paid through instead of being booked off from 7.25 to 8.00 a.m.

Allocation of buses was discussed and it was proposed by Bro Sanders & seconded by Bro Harris “That the daily allocation of buses be inquired into with the Chief Engineer”.

Time by now was growing short and the meeting closed at 4.50. C. E. Martin.

Accepted. Proposed Bro Britchford. Seconded Bro F. Sanders.

Depot Meeting held on Jan 31st, 1951.

The meeting opened at 10.40. The minutes of the previous meeting were read out and accepted. Turns were discussed and it was agreed that we push for T 4 to be paid through again.

Car allocations came up next and it was asked if it was possible to get a good bus on W 4 on Fridays also on the 9.43 to N’pton on Saturdays.

A proposal “That Bro. Hood reorganize the Car Rota” was put forward by Bro Wyman H. and seconded by Bro Roast. Holidays were discussed and Bro Britchford put forward a scheme for shortening these and on a vote being taken it was agreed that it be put to the Company, failing its acceptance we work to the same scheme as last year.

The terminus for Ser 3 at Kettering was discussed, it was thought that it would be better if we could proceed via market St. and start the return journey from the other end of the Library.

Bro Britchford proposed, Bro Harris seconded that we put this forward to the Company. Bro Parr’s suspension was discussed and this was to be inquired about at the next Branch Meeting.

It was asked if we would look into T 1 to see if a dinner time could obtained.

This was all the business and the meeting closed at 11.50.

Depot Meeting held on Feb 1st, 1951.

The meeting opened at 10.35 with Bro Richardson in the chair. Bro Hood was also present.

The proposed alterations to T 23 were discussed. Bro Hood put forward the following suggestion. T 23 start with 4.15 to Hinwick, 5.10 Raunds, 5.35 to Ringstead then carry on as now. T 7 to do 3.10 to W’boro, 4.13 to Raunds and Ringstead, 5.12 to Ringstead, 5.35 to Rushden via Whites, then Oakley. It was then proposed by Bro Roast and seconded by Bro Mumford “That these proposed alterations be accepted”. This was passed. A complaint was made about the Setrights concerning the figuring and asking if more of the type with white figures on black background could be obtained.

There was also a complaint about the speedometers being fitted to the new buses, asking if these could be rectified. C. E. Martin.

Proposed G. Roast. Seconded O. C. Clarke.

Depot Meeting held on Monday, May 28, 1951.

The meeting opened at 10.30 a.m.

The minutes of the previous meeting were read and accepted.

Bro Hood then outlined the meeting between the Committee and Mr Hartley, giving the alterations that had been suggested to the various turns. There was a 3 hr. duty in the morning which was to include a journey to Yelden via Ser 10, this meant there had to be a return journey at night, operating at S 40 in place of the journey at present run via 67 Ser, and it was suggested that T 25 do this journey in place of the 5.35 to W’boro. This would make this duty finish 10 minutes earlier.

The loadings on the 5.35 to W’boro were to be checked to see if this journey could be turned round at Irchester, and if so, this to be done by making this turn finish at the same time. After some discussion Bro Chown proposed, seconded by Bro Carr, “That the proposed alterations be typed and posted up for consideration. A meeting to be called as soon as possible after this had been done”. On the vote this proposition was carried.

Next alterations to Ts 1, 12, 20 & 21 were put forward & discussed.

Bro Roast proposed, seconded by Bro Gilbert “That we turn down these alterations”. This was voted on & carried.

Bro Richardson then outlined suggested alterations to Ts 15 – 21, but this was also turned down. Holidays for next year were discussed but nothing definite was decided upon and as time was growing short the meeting was brought to a close. C. E. Martin.

Proposed Bro Chown. Seconded Bro Parr.

Depot Meeting held on Monday, June 11, 1951.

The Meeting opened at 10.40 with Bro March, the Branch Chairman in the chair.

The minutes of the previous meeting were read and accepted.

The suggested 3 L duty incorporating the morning journey to Yelden was put forward and after much discussion Bro Harris put forward the proposition, seconded by Bro Roast, “That the Committee sort the whole situation out and approach the Company on the matter again”. This was carried.

Bro March gave a report on progress made with regard to the break in duty 4 and had a letter from Bro Irons suggesting that the journey from Raunds should be brought forward 3 minutes making more running time. Bro Britchford proposed, seconded by Bro Harris “That we accept the offer of the 3 minutes and that the journey be turned round at the Lightstrung”. This was carried.

A letter from Bro Irons was read regarding damages to Setrights. The Branch saying no bills to be paid.

It was brought up about a spare man working on a Sunday and after this had been discussed fully Bro Roast proposed, Bro Harris seconded “That if no conductor is available on a Sunday and there is a driver able & willing to conduct he be asked to do so. This was carried.

Spare men working on Saturdays were also discussed. The meeting was of the opinion that we had too many of these spares. This was left to be looked into.

The committee were also asked to look into the possibilities of changing the Saturday supplementary turns with Rota turns.

Following this the meeting closed at 11.55. C. E. Martin.

Proposed. Bro Britchford. Seconded. Bro Parker.

Depot Meeting held on Wed. 29 Aug, 1951.

The Minutes of the previous meeting were read and accepted.

Arising from the minutes it was asked if anything had been done about the Saturday turns. The chairman reported that nothing had been done yet as we had been trying to get the other turns squared up first.

Week end labour was again discussed and on the proposition, proposed by Bro Britchford, seconded by Bro G. Roast “That all weekend staff should belong to the T.G.W.U.”, which was carried. It was agreed that this should be brought up at the Branch Meeting.

The chairman then outlined the suggested new turn and also the proposed alterations to Turns 1, 12, 21, 22, 25.

After a somewhat lengthy discussion it was proposed by Bro H. Robinson & seconded by Bro H. Clark “That we accept the new suggested turn.” On the vote being taken 10 voted for and 4 against. There were 15 members present at this time.

The Committee had suggested that the turn should be worked on the Rota in the following manner. On Rota 2 from Wednesday the Rest Day being changed from Wednesday to Sunday and the Rota to work this Sunday as rest day work.

On Rota 30 for Monday & Tuesday.

I’boro to work it on Thursday on their report day & to be worked on Friday as Rota Day work.

This was all the business and the meeting closed at 11.50. C. E. Martin.

Proposed. Bro H. Wyman. Seconded. Bro H. Robinson.

Depot Meeting held on Thursday Oct. 18, 1951.

Bros Richardson, Hood and Martin present.

The Meeting opened at 10.35 a.m.

The minutes of the previous meeting were read and accepted.

Holidays for 1952 were discussed and Bro K. Sanders proposed, Bro J. Mumford seconded “That holidays be taken during holiday periods”. This was carried.

Shortening of the holiday rota was next on the agenda and on the proposition of Bro F. Sanders with Bro Mumford as seconder “That we agree to shorten the holiday rota to 25 weeks providing that it does not entail any rescheduling of duties or make any serious alteration to any ones holiday period.” This was also carried.

Any other business followed. The Chairman informed the meeting of the retirement of our Branch Secretary. It had been suggested by the Branch Committee that collection sheets be posted at all depots with a maximum contribution of 1/-. After discussion it was agreed that we post one at Rushden. Complaint was then made regarding the 5.37 p.m. journey out of Derngate. Passengers did not keep behind the barrier and there was danger of some one being run into. We then had a proposition by Bro M. Holser, with Bro F. Lawrence as seconder “That unless passengers are kept behind the barrier we refuse to put the bus on to the bay”. This was carried.

Complaints were made regarding figuring and general conditions of the Setrights. It was agreed the Committee contact Mr Howes regarding these points.

Saturday turns were discussed and it was suggested the Turn 130 be put onto the Rota in place of the Turn which did the last W’boro, this being Rota. It was asked if approach would be made to the Company regarding the cycle shed as this is neither big enough or good enough to give cover to cycles, these being an expensive item to have to leave out in all weathers.

It was requested that we hold a depot meeting once a month.

The meeting then closed at 11.50. C. E. Martin.

1952/53.

Bro Crank A. Unapposed as Branch Chairman.

Voting for Branch Secretary (From Rushden Depot)

Depot Meeting held on Wed. Jan 23, 1952.

The Meeting opened at 10.40 with about 14 members present. Bro Richardson outlined the proposed changes regarding the holiday rota and after a lengthy discussion Bro Britchford proposed, Bro Stokes seconded “That the Committee approach the Company to get out the named holiday list as soon as possible with a meeting called again as soon as this is obtained.” This was carried.

The changes to turns 3-6 was discussed. Regarding T6 Bro Roast Pro, Bro Claridge Sec. “That T6 be accepted.” 5 voted for the motion and 12 abstained. This was carried, no one voted against. It was explained that there was no change to T3. Bro Britchford then pro, seconded by Bro Lawrence “That spare work be worked on a rota system.” This was carried.

Week end labour came up again. Bro Roast proposing, Bro Parr seconding “That the people on Rotas 12, 24, & 27 be offered any spare work such as duping on early finishes and week enders put on the afore mentioned Rotas.” This was carried.

Bro Spears then pro, seconded by Bro Farrow “That all breaks under 65 minutes be put through.” This was carried.

Head lights on the buses were discussed, and it was left for the Committee to look into them.

It was suggested that the lamp glasses should be changed from off to near side on the new type buses. It was also said that the older type buses had near side lights of too low a wattage.

There was no other business and the meeting closed. C. E. Martin (Sec.). H. Richardson (Chairman).

Depot Meeting held on Tues, Feb 5, 1952.

The meeting opened at 10.35 with 12 members present.

The minutes of the previous meeting were read and accepted. Arising from these it was asked if anything had been done about the headlights, Bro Hood telling the meeting that he had discussed these with the depot foreman at W’boro, who said that some of the drivers there were not altogether satisfied with some of the buses that had been so changed.

A proposition was put forward by Bro Hart & seconded by Bro Robinson “That 2 buses have the headlight glasses changed for a trial period of approx 2 weeks.” This was carried.

The new holiday rotas were discussed and the following proposition was put forward by Bro Sanders F. and seconded by Bro Lawrence F. “That we accept the new holiday rotas and try to stabilize the starting date for future years to the second Friday in April and also for Rushden Depot to be rostered on their own.” This was carried.

There was no other business and the meeting closed at 10.30. C. E. Martin (Sec.). H. Richardson (Chairman).

Depot Meeting held on Friday, Feb 22, 1952.

Meeting opened at 10.40 with a good attendance.

The minutes of the previous meeting were read and accepted.

The Chairman told of the Committee Meeting with Mr Howes and Mr Hartley regarding the Rushden Town Ser. Explaining the proposed route etc. There was also a alternative route for the Alfred St and College St section. After much discussion Bro Stokes proposed, Bro Bailey seconded “That we do not operate the section of the route Alfred St, College St, High St or the alternative (this being Church St, High St, College St & Alfred St, then into Church St again) we consider this too dangerous.” This was carried.

The times of various journeys was discussed and then Bro Robinson proposed, Bro Harris seconded “That we have a time check on 5.33 p.m. Whites Fact. Higham to Oval Rd, also the 5.15 Rushden to I’boro & return.” This was carried.

The changing of the headlight glasses met with the approval of the drivers present and it was decided that we make a request for all the buses to be so changed where it was possible to do so.

Setrights. It was said that a conductor might go out with a machine and then find that it could not issue tickets correctly. Bro Harris then proposed & Bro King seconded “That conductors be allowed to turn out a test ticket before commencing duty, this is to include weekly tickets or Monday.” This was carried.

Conductors were reminded to book any defaults daily with regard to the machines.

There was no other business and the meeting closed at 11.40. C. E. Martin (Sec). H. Richardson (Chairman).

Depot Meeting held on Friday, June 5, 1952.

The meeting opened at 10.50 with 12 members present. The minutes of the previous meeting were read and accepted.

Arising from the minutes it was asked if any thing had been done regarding the time clocks, and the answer was that the Company had made no reply to date, a request was made that they be approached again.

The Chairman gave a report on the meeting with the Company regarding the Town Service.

Complaints were made regarding weekenders again, it was said that they were doing the dups and getting paid for a lot of idle time. Holidays were discussed. Bro Roast proposed, Bro Clarke H. seconded “That holidays be taken during the holiday periods Easter & Whitsun.” This was carried.

Regarding holiday turns Bro Roast proposed, Bro Britchford seconded “That duties 14, 15, 16, 17 be rescheduled to finish nearer to their normal times.”

It was also asked that the Company be approached regarding running the 6.5 a.m. I’boro to Rushden during the holiday period.

A complaint was made about the parking on the road outside the Swan at Higham of the 5.20 dup to Finedon (This being a Wellingboro’ Duty).

It was asked that a request be made to see if the buses going to Newton and beyond could start from the Garage instead of Kellers shop as it was very often impossible to stop there owing to parked traffic.

Bro Britchford made a proposition which was seconded by Bro Holser “That Southern Irelanders be debarred from starting on the job.” This was carried. The meeting was of the opinion that there was plenty of home labour available.

There was the usual complaints about the Set Rights. It was thought that Rushden Depot had the worst machines on the Fleet.

Time was now growing short and the meeting closed. C. E. Martin, Sec. H. Richardson, Chairman.

Depot Meeting held on Friday, July 4, 1952.

The meeting opened at 10.40 with 10 members present. The minutes of the previous meeting were read and accepted.

Arising, it was asked if any thing had been done regarding the time checks. The Chairman replied that the Company had agreed to do these but they were yet to be arranged. Regarding the 6.5 a.m. bus from I’boro to Rushden the Company said they could not run this during the holiday period as it did not pay and if it was run just for Staff other Depots would feel they were entitled to transport as well.

This meeting was called to discuss an early journey to Yelden and certain alterations to timings on the time workers runs, but as that after 11 o’clock there were only 3 members present (these also left at 11.15), no decisions were reached and the meeting was closed. C. E. Martin, Sec. H. Richardson.

Depot Meeting held on Tuesday, July 15, 1952.

The Meeting opened at 11 a.m. with 13 members present. Bro Hood took the chair as Bro Richardson was on holiday.

This Meeting was really a continuation of the last one which finished with 3 members present.

Bro Hood outlined the proposed alterations regarding the tea time runs of turns 9, 17 & 18. Bro Mumford proposed, Bro Britchford seconded “That these changes to the timing of tea time runs be accepted.” This was carried.

Town Service. The Company had stated that in order to get the town service running they were prepared for the route to be altered, for the time being, to travel via church St instead of Alfred St, College St & High St. This was discussed and Bro Wyman H. proposed, Bro Dickerson L. seconded “That we accept this amended Town Service Route.” This was carried.

Details were given of a early run to Yelden via Ser 10 and a night run to Raunds via Ser 4A, both being supplementary duties. Also of changes to Turns 5, 22 & 25 to work the return journey to Yelden. After discussion Bro Sanders R. proposed, Bro Britchford seconded “That we accept the changes, also the supplementary duties providing the night journey to Raunds is worked as a 3 hr duty.” This was carried.

Bro Sanders R. then proposed, seconded by Bro Harris A. “That 2 Committee members meet Mr Hartley to reschedule the Town Ser duties.” The meeting was then closed. C. E. Martin, Sec. H. Richardson, Chairman.

Result of Ballot Aug 25, 1952 For 1 Committee Member owing to the resignation of Bro Hood H.

C. E. Martin, 26-8-52.

Depot Meeting held on Tuesday, Sep 2, 1952.

The meeting opened at 10.30 a.m. with a good attendance. Bros March & Walden were in attendance. The minutes of the previous meeting were read and accepted.

Bro Walden told of a meeting with Mr Pittard who had told him that the Company had to start the Rushden Town Service on Sunday Sep 7 or they would have the licences withdrawn.

Bro March said he had been looking into the Sunday schedules and agreed that there were rough ones amongst them. He had tried to make an extra duty but could not do so without a loss in pay, so he had made some alterations to the existing duties and was of the opinion that he had made them somewhat better. The meeting here expressed the view that there was other poor turns and mentioned T 21.

Bro Williams C. R. proposed & Bro Chown H. seconded, “That extra duties be compiled from sections taken out of existing duties and another Rota week be added or alternatively to fill in the blank week on Rota 34”. On the vote 7 were against, 6 for and 15 abstained from voting.

Bro Harris A. put forward a proposition “That if the Company were not willing to put an extra week on the Rota, extra turns be made and worked as Supplementary duties”. There was no seconder for this.

Bro March then explained that the Rota could be accepted on the understanding that further discussion was desired regarding the schedules. Bro Roast G. proposed, Bro Nutt R. seconded “That we accept the new Rota providing further discussion can take place regarding the schedule.” At this time there were 29 members present and on a vote being taken 13 voted for, 3 against. There were 8 abstainers. Bro March stated he would give all the help he could to the committee to try and improve the schedule.

The change to T15 was brought up, which had meant a reduction of 15 minutes pay. Bro March advised the Chairman to make a request that which the old Rota was being worked. “That the pay be as before”.

The meeting was then closed. C. E. Martin Sec. H. Richardson, Chairman.

Depot Meeting held on Sep 22, 1952.

The Meeting opened at 11 a.m. with 11 members present.

The minutes of the previous meeting were read and accepted.

The Chairman suggested changes to Turns 18-21 which were that T18 works as card to 7.20 and takes over card 21 from 7.55 to the finish, and T21 works as card to 8.3 and then as card 18 from 8.15 to the finish. After the suggestions had been fully discussed a vote was taken which resulted in 9 being for, 1 against and 7 abstainers.

Town Service timing was discussed, it being said that on busy journeys it was taking as long as 16½ minutes to do a trip.

Bro Clark H. G. proposed, Bro Turner A. seconded “That the Town Service be given 17 minutes running time with 3 minutes lay over in each direction.” This was carried. C. E. Martin, Sec.

Depot Meeting held on Jan 7th, 1953.

The meeting opened at 11 a.m. with a good attendance.

Bro Martin took the Chair and informed the meeting that the Chairman, Bro Richardson had tendered his resignation to the Branch Committee, who at their monthly meeting had laid this on the table and had suggested that Bro Richardson be asked to the next Branch Meeting to state his troubles.

Business commenced with two proposals from the Company, one being to incorporate a 4.00 p.m. journey from Rushden to Newton into T 20 and delete the 3.30 from T15. The other was for a journey to the Co-op Laundry Estate to be put into Duty 11 during a 20 minute layover at I’boro. The meeting was not in favour of these and made the following proposition “That we desire another duty to be made out of existing work, incorporating the 4.00 Newton.” Proposer was Bro Hood, Bro Harris seconded. This was carried.

Some suggestions as to the work were a morning sup, a dinner time run to Raunds and help the I’boro Duty out which was said to be overloaded on its Raunds to Stanwick journey, and then to ease some of the tightly timed tea time runs, the 5.3 town service relieve on Duty 5 was mentioned.

Some suggested alterations to various turns that had been requested were made but as we were having a meeting on Friday, Jan 16 at which Bros Crank (Branch Chairman), March (Branch Sec), Walden (District Organiser) were to be present it was agreed that these be left over. Suggestions for business at this meeting were: Rescheduling of all Duties with a min 7.20 hrs day. Town Service timing and Blocks of Duty with 90 mins max. Holidays. Rushden to be rostered by Themselves and starting date of holiday be stabilised. Condition of buses. Setrights. Request for Notice Case to be put in a more prominent place.

After a request for a good attendance at this meeting the meeting closed at 11.45 a.m. C. E. Martin (Sec).

Depot Meeting held on Friday, Jan 16, 1953.

The minutes of the last meeting were read and accepted.

Bros March and Walden were present.

Bro Walden addressed the meeting and asked for support for Bro Richardson. Bro March said a Chairman should be proposed for the meeting and Bro Turner proposed, Bro Harris seconded “That Bro Richardson takes the Chair for this meeting.” This was carried. Bro Richardson then took his place.

Business commenced with a discussion on duties. Following this Bro Harris proposed, Bro Clark H. seconded “Rescheduling of all Duties.” This was carried by 14 for and none against.

A minimum 7.20 hrs day was discussed and Bro Walden told the meeting “That this was being brought up in London shortly.”

Town Service was brought up next and Bro Roast proposed, Bro Facer seconded “That a time check be taken on the Town Service.” This was carried by 21 to nil.

Time checks on the 5.33 p.m. Whites F Higham T to Oval Rd, 5.15 Rushden to I’boro & 5.30 Return & the 4.31 I’boro to N’pton, 5.37 N’pton to Rushden were brought up and Bro Walden took note of these for action to be taken. Bro March answered some questions on holidays and said he would see that the order? was got out as soon as possible and posted. Bro Walden then told the meeting of some new proposed journeys to Chelveston Drome, including a 10.25 to Yelden & a 4.15 to Newton Turn.

It was almost 12 o’clock now and the meeting had to be closed. C. E. Martin (Sec.).

Depot Meeting held on Tuesday, Jan 27 1953.

Bro Martin opened the meeting by telling of a telephone conversation with Bro Walden in which he (Bro Walden) had made a request that Bro Richardson be asked to attend this meeting, also the next Branch Meeting.

Bro Harris proposed, Bro Facer seconded “That Bro Richardson be asked to reconsider his decision to resign.” This was carried.

Bro Richardson took the chair for this meeting.

The minutes of the previous meeting were read and accepted.

A change concerning the route into W’boro of the 10.15 a.m. I’boro to W’boro on Duty 2 was discussed and accepted.

The new duties concerning the Chelveston journeys were discussed.

The time was now just after 11 a.m. and there was only 7 members present so it was decided to wait for a vote until more members arrived, and we had a proposition from Bro Hood, seconded by Bro Sanders F. “That existing turns stay as they are and the new supplementary duties are worked as extra work, so that no one is under obligation to work theses duties as this is what was understood from Bro Walden.” This was carried.

A request for the last journeys to – be earlier was also made. A complaint was also made that a defect sheet for the Setrights was not always available.

The meeting was then closed. C. E. Martin.

Depot Meeting held on Wednesday, Feb 4, 1953.

The meeting opened at 11.00 a.m. with Bros Walden & Crank present.

The minutes of the previous meeting wee read and accepted.

Bro Walden outlined the meeting between himself and the depot committee, with Mr Crew. The time check on the Town Service was to be arranged when Mr Hartley returned to work, he was away sick at the present time. Mr Crew asked for particulars as to what was required in the rescheduling of all duties. Regarding the 5.15 to I’boro & return, he would be willing for it to leave I’boro at 5.35 to Rushden and 5.50 to Bozeat. He said he would look into the 5.33 Higham to Oval Rd to see if the 5.48 Kett could be retarded.

The Chelveston duties were discussed and Mr Crew said it looked as if some of these runs might have to be rearranged or curtailed and asked that we run them for a fortnight to see what happened.

The meeting then discussed these points and it was thought that the last journeys could be brought forward to 10.00 p.m. to Yelden and 10.25 to Newton Turn. The meeting was agreeable to the alterations to T13.

A proposition was put by Bro Roast and seconded by Bro Tobin “That these duties be worked as they are for a fortnight and then another meeting called. The 10.00 p.m. and the 10.25 p.m. suggested journeys to be put to the Company.” This was carried.

Bro Crank told the meeting that the 7.20 hrs min day was being discussed at National Level in the near future. Spread overs were also being gone into Nationally and data was being collected from all Companies.

The meeting was then brought to a close. C. E. Martin (Sec).

Depot Meeting held on Wed, Feb 18, 1953.

The meeting opened at 10.45 a.m. with a fair attendance.

The minutes of the previous meeting were read and accepted.

Alterations to the Duties 13 & 22 on tea time runs were brought forward and accepted on the proposition by Bro Wyman H. and seconded by Bro Chown H.

Bro Walden then told of his meeting with Mr Crew with regard to the Chelveston Duties. There was to be some changes in these and the following journeys were to be deleted: Mon-Fri 5.25, 6.15 & 11.15 to the Newton T, Sun 6.40 & Sat 5.55. Bro Walden expressed his view that it appeared that T18 would be able to revert to its old status. Several questions were asked and answered.

It was reported that a move was being made Nationally to get the unpaid time in 8/0 cut down to 90 mins.

Following the discussion Bro Chown proposed, Bro Howard seconded “That we accept Bro Walden’s report and accord him with a vote of thanks.” This was carried.

Bro Walden then asked for suggestions as to what was required in the full rescheduling but failed to get anything concrete. Complaints were made of Sunday spread overs. These being thought unnecessary.

Duty 210 216 on Sundays and 125 on Sat were complained of. It was asked that the Rota be balanced as near as possible to give equal lates and earlies in a week.

Quick change overs were also mentioned. A proposition was put forward by Bro Harris and seconded by Bro Howard “That following a depot meeting for suggestions a meeting be arranged between Bro Walden, the Committee and the Management.” This was carried and the meeting was closed. C. E. Martin.

Result of Ballot for 1 Committeeman. 23/2/53.

There were 12 members present at the commencement of the meeting.

Bro Burton gave a report of the Exe meeting with the Company.

The old C.N. had had meetings and had agreed to work Sunday Services.

Mr Pittard told of 6 Companies in the near area? who had agreed on Sunday Ser. He also said that a Sunday Ser required the least labour, there were to be no spares or dups. 7½ hrs would be paid in place of a lieu day, but the Company would not agree to pay men failing to report.

Some holiday duties were discussed and a request was made for the Monday & Tuesday on R6 to be moved to avoid working the last Town Ser 3 times in a row during holidays. It was stated that it was impossible to obtain tea on T 23 during holiday times.

A proposition put forward by Bro Britchford, seconded by Bro Roast “That a definite answer to be received by the men regarding the Town Ser time check with 28 days of the Branch Meeting.” This was carried.

Bro Britchford the proposed, Bro Tobin seconded “A vote of no confidence in the TGWU, particularly the 5/97 Branch as the National Agreement was not suitable to keep up with the cost of living and present working conditions.”

The meeting was then closed. C. E. Martin (Sec).

Depot Meeting held on Tues, July 7th, 1953.

Bro Walden opened the meeting and gave a report of the meeting with the management regarding the Town Service. It was suggested that the Grove Rd – Oswald Rd section be discontinued and the journey to be straight up the Newton Rd.

Loadings were to be taken by conductors and entered on forms provided.

The Company wanted to cut out the journeys at present running to the Chelveston Camp, namely the 6.40 & 11.15, and run the following: 6.10 to the Camp, 6.30 to Kettering returning at 11.00 ex Kettering. This to be worked as a supplementary duty. This entailed changes to several duties and a resolution was got by Bro Roast, seconded by Bro Williams & carried “That we do not accept these new duties as they are a worsening of conditions.”

The following was proposed by Bro Britchford, seconded by Bro Tobin “Any extra buses to be worked by extra work and the Rota left as it is.” This was carried.

This concluded the meeting. C. E. Martin (Sec).

Depot Meeting held on Tuesday, 6 Oct, 1953.

Bro Walden gave a report regarding a proposed supplementary duty incorporating the Chelveston - Kettering journey and after much discussion it was proposed by Bro Clark H., seconded by Bro Roast G. “That we do not work the proposed duties.” 13 votes for, 0 against, 3 abstained.

It was then reported by the meeting that the 3 hr Spl Duty on Saturday was now being done by W’boro Depot. This having been taken away without any notice.

Bro Roast proposed, Bro Tobin seconded “That if the spl duty on Saturday is not worked by Rushden Depot this week no extra work to be done on Saturday.” This however was dropped in favour of a second motion proposed by Bro Roast and seconded by Bro Clark H. “That Rota men with late duties be given the opportunity to change his duty for any floating duty on Saturday before week end staff is detailed. Rota man to be approached in following order 21, 24, 27.” This was carried and concluded the business. C. E. Martin.

Depot Meeting held on Oct 20, 1953.

This meeting was called to discuss proposed changes to duties.

Bro Britchford proposed, Bro Robinson seconded “That D1 be accepted.”

Bro Roast proposed, Bro Clark H. seconded “That D11 – 24 be rejected.”

This was the only business. C. E. Martin.

Depot Meeting held on Nov 12, 1953.

The meeting opened with a discussion on depot practices and Bro Britchford proposed, Bro Hutt seconded “That Bro Walden be approached to for a meeting between the Committee and the Company with regard to the DTS’s various actions.” This was carried.

Alterations to duties were discussed and the following were accepted 9, 9B, 17B, 21B, 21A & 21 as these only had changes to tea time journeys. Bro Parker proposed, Bro Britchford seconded “That duties 10, 16B, 17, 17C be rejected owing to extra mileage and worsening of conditions with no extra pay.”

The meeting was then closed. C. E. Martin.

Pro. Bro L. Britchford.

Sec. Bro M. Smith.

H. Richardson, Chairman.

Depot Meeting held on 10-10-53.

With Bro Richardson in the Chair, also present were Bro Walden, Dist Org and Bro Holser. Members present 17.

The minutes of the previous meeting were read accepted.

Bro Walden gave a report on a Meeting with the Company, about the proposed alterations of Duties 11, 11B, 17, 17B & 16C, after which a discussion on these took place from which a number of questions wee asked, which Bro Walden answered. A resolution was then put forward. Resolution: “If duties 26, 27, 13 & 8 Weekdays, 123 Sat and 215 Sun were rescheduled, Duties 11, 11B, 17, 17B & 16C would be worked.

Proposed by Bro H. Williams.

Seconded by Bro R. Giles.

Amendment: “That Duty 8 should not be Rescheduled, Duty 11 should not be accepted.”

Proposed by Bro L. Britchford.

Seconded by Bro R. Fisher.

The amendment was carried.

Other Business. Proposed “That pressure be brought to bear on the Company to amalgamate the agreements of the Western and Eastern areas of this Company.”

Proposed by Bro L. Britchford.

Seconded by Bro R. Fisher.

Voting: Unan.

Proposed “That Conductors from Northampton shall work on a Rota Week at Rushden Depot.”

Proposed by Bro R. Fisher.

Seconded by Bro V. Bibby.

Voting: Unan.

The last proposal came from a discussion about Northampton Conductors doing Extra Duty but refusing to work spreadovers.

The meeting closed at 11.52 a.m. H. Richardson, Chairman.

18/1/54.

Rushden Depot Committee unopposed are: V. Bibby, M. J. Smith, F. L. Stokes.

Election of Branch Chairman. Votes won: Benford B. W. 16 and Crank A. 16 at Rushden Depot. Scrutineeers: H. Richardson. R. Turner.

Depot Meeting on 18/1/54.

With Mr Smith in the Chair and Bro Stoke were there. Members present 5.

It is proposed by Bro Richardson “That Drivers from other Depots should come under the same prepositions as Northants Drivers.” Sec by Bro Mumford. Called unan.

It was proposed “That duties 128-129 be accepted subject to 129 remaining as a Supplementary Duty.” Prop. by Bro Richardson. Sec. by Bro Gilbert. Unan.

Depot Meeting on 4/2/54.

The meeting opened with a discussion on St. Neots turns for the Loss of Running Time, and the transfer of Driver from Corby to Rushden.

Proposals: “Turns to be worked under protest pending further negotiations.”

Proposed by H. Richardson. Seconded by A. Harris. Carried unan.

Corby Driver. Proposal “He can work at Rushden as a conductor but not as a Driver.”

Proposed by H. Richardson. Seconded by H. Mumford. Carried unan.

V. Bibby, Chairman.

Depot Meeting on 8/2/54.

Bro Bibby opened the meeting with Bro Walden there and Bro Stokes. Members were 40. Bro Walden gave a resume of the position and affects that the notices would be withdrawn immediately.

It was proposed by Bro Richardson “That Rushden Depot resumes normal working when Northampton Depot are satisfied that the . . . . is settled.”

Proposed by Bro Buxton “That contact be made with Northampton Depot and get Bro Archer on the telephone and have the Result of the Meeting and resume normal working as same as Northampton agree to do so.” W. Clarke, Sec. V. Bibby, Chairman.

Depot Meeting on 3/3/54.

The meeting opened with Bro Bibby in the chair. It is proposed “That Drivers Berwick does not do any early finishes on Saturday as he is a part time Driver.” Prop. by Bro Roast. Sec. by Bro Fisher. Carried.

Amendment “Should he be detailed for such duties no extra work will be done on that day by imported labour or week end labour or Rushden Depot men. Committee has full powers etc. etc.” Prop. By Bro Roast. Sec. by Bro Williams. V. Bibby, Chairman. N. J. Smith, Sec. L. Stokes.

Depot Meeting on 5/3/54.

The meeting opened with Bro Stokes in the chair. It was proposed at Wednesday meeting Reference to Driver Berwick if the Members decision shall lay on the table until the Chairman has met Mr Maycock of Northampton. Meeting closed 11.50. 10. Bro Upchurch. Chairman Bro Stokes. Sec Bro Smith.

Depot Meeting on 9/3/54.

There were 12 members present at the Consultative Committee Meeting.

Bro Buxton gave a Report of the Meeting with the Company and he said it was a good Meeting. The holidays would be put up as soon as possible and there were other (schemes which included inspectors). 20. Chairman V. Bibby. Sec. H. J. Smith.

Rushden Depot Meeting on April 22, 1954.

Bro Bibby in the Chair.

The minutes of the previous meeting were read and accepted.

The Chairman opened the meeting by saying the meeting was called primarily to get Sunday Rest Day Work and Spare and Duplication put on a definite Rota (S) and asked for suggestions.

The Resolution was “To put the three Rest Day Duties one in 11 weeks throughout the Rota, Spare in front of early Monday, the two Dups in front of late Monday and that no revised turns should be accepted until this was complied with.” Proposed by Bro Britchford, sec by Bro Roast. Carried unan.

Proposal “That all P. Hire and Tours and Excursions and Express work starting from Rushden or Raunds should be worked by Rushden men.” Proposed by Bro Roast, sec. by Bro Britchford. Carried unan.

Proposal “That on a man’s day off he should be in a position to refuse without victimisation.” Proposed by Bro Clark H., sec by Bro Harris. Carried unan.

Proposal “None other than Rushden Depot crews should do spare.” Proposed by Bro Roast, sec by Bro Tobin. Carried unan.

Proposal “No imported Labour should be used at Rushden Depot whilst Extra work is being done at their own Depots.” Proposed by Bro Farrow, sec Bro H. Clark. Carried unan.

Proposal “No worker weekly tickets should be issued except on Monday during and following holiday weeks.” Proposed by Bro Richardson H., sec by Bro Fisher. Carried unan.

Proposal “To condemn and query the action of Kettering Depot Committee? for allowing Driver to be set on Direct without first doing conducting.” Proposed by Bro Britchford, sec by Bro Mumford. Carried unan.

Proposal “No Rushden crews shall wait over three minutes at connecting points.” Propsed by Bro Fisher, sec by Bro Nutt. Carried unan.

The Meeting closed with an attendance of 30 members. Sec. H. J. Smith. Chairman Bibby. Stokes.

Rushden Depot Meeting on 6/5/54.

Bro Bibby in the chair.

Previous minutes read and accepted.

Proposal “The (amendments) Turns Nos 213, 216, 218, 17, 17C, 21, 111, 115, 119, 121 will be worked only if the DTS agrees to the Saturday morning spare on Rota 9, the 8.15 a.m. Saturday Duplicate on Rota 1 and Sun Spare on Rota 20, Duplicates on Rota 6 and 33.” Proposed by Bro Mumford, Sec by Bro Williams. Carried unan.

Proposal “Whilst Reversing a conductor will stop on bus and give bell signals, not get off the bus and give signals by hand.” Proposed by Bro Turner, sec by Bro Princely. Carried unan.

The next two meetings contain details of a personal nature and were not transcribed.

Rushden Depot Meeting 22 Sep. 54.

The meeting opened at 11.30 a.m. with 14 members present.

Bro Harris proposed “We rescind the local agreement whereby minimum payment is 7 hrs for a Days work and substitute 7 hrs 20 mins.” Bro Farrow seconded. For 14, against 0.

Ref. Duty 2, Rejected on the above grounds, alternative to press for 5 mins extra running time Depot to Skinners Hill. Bro H. Richardson proposed “That new Duty 8 not be accepted, the alternative being to insert Duty 25, 11.0 to Hinwick in place of 11.0 Newton.” Bro Tobin seconded. For 14, against 0. In Chair H. J. Smith.

Branch Meeting Oct 4th, 1954.

At a Branch Meeting on Oct 4th, 1954 the following resolution was submitted by Northampton Depot *“That we demand £10 per week of 44 hours and if it is reported at the next Branch Meeting that this demand has not been met we consider working rota week only forthwith.” Support for this resolution was asked for by all Depots. V.N.B.

Depot Meeting on Oct 6th, 1954.

At a Depot Meeting on Oct 6th, 1954, the following resolution was proposed by Bro Tobin and seconded by Bro Williams “That we support the resolution submitted by Northampton Depot.” 30 in favour, 2 did not vote and 1 against. Chairman V. N. Bibby. H. Smith. L. Stokes.

Branch Meeting on Nov 1st, 1954.

At a Branch Meeting on Nov. 1st, 1954, it was decided that as a wage increase for Company Busmen was being made mid December the above resolution* should not apply to wages but be used in a fight for better conditions generally. A Special committee will be formed (one man from each Depot) and meet at Wellingborough “Swan and Nest” on Thurs 4 Nov at 4 p.m. to frame a proposal from the condition submissions sent in by each Depot. Bro Stokes will represent Rushden Depot.

Branch Meeting on Nov 2nd, 1954.

At a Branch Meeting on Nov 2nd, this Report (see above) was explained to the men and accepted. Also a resolution was passed unan. “That Turn 107 should finish at 2.40 p.m. and no later finishing time would be entertained, man concerned would report until that time but not go on the road after 2.30 p.m.” Proposed by Bro G. Roast. Sec by Bro R. Tobin.

Also it was suggested that Bros Holser and Mumford be asked to do conducting on Sundays to allow Drivers to work if any further men were required for conducting duties. Chairman V. N. Bibby.

Depot Meeting held at Rushden Canteen.

This meeting was called to discuss Duty 107 and it was proposed “That Duty 107 to be changed so that the report be taken off Duty 107 and the start of a late Duty put in its place, and the report to be put in the start of a late Duty, & that the Raunds to Kettering journey be inserted permanently on Duty 107.” Proposed by Bro Pettit. Seconded by Bro Burrett.

Depot Meeting held in Rushden Canteen 21 April 1955.

Proposed alteration to Turn 1 Schools journey. No objections were raised. Bro Smith in the Chair.

June 29th, 1955.

A Meeting was called for 10.30 a.m. and was not convened as there were insufficient members present.

Depot Meeting at Rushden Canteen July 1st, 1955.

Bro Smith in the Chair.

It was decided that a meeting should be held at midnight to discuss possible action in view of the 7 days notice given to Bros Bibby and Lewis.

July 1st Midnight.

Chairman Bro Smith.

At a well attended meeting the following resolutions were proposed.

1. “That unless Bros Bibby and Lewis are reinstated unconditionally and it is erased from their records, Rushden Depot withdraw their labour as from 12 midnight October 2nd, 1955 unless an answer is received by midday.” Pro. Bro Martin. Sec. Bro H. Williams. 36 for, 0 against. Paper ballot.

2. “That for any change of duty or part of duty the member of staff concerned should be approached and be in agreement with and any victimisation of the staff will be dealt with by Depot Committee as they think fit.” Pro. Bro H. Williams. Sec. Bro Bridgeford. 36 for, 0 against.

Meeting at Rushden Depot July 2nd, 1955.

Chairman Bro Smith. Bro Walden attended.

Bro Walden made his excuses for his not attending last night’s meeting and then continued to deal with the second resolution of the previous meeting and emphasised what he had done in the case of Bros Bibby and Lewis, he then carried on to the first resolution, and dealt with questions from the members and the following resolution was evolved at his instigation “We resolve to allow the Union Officers to conduct these appeals on Wednesday with provision that they will report the result immediately to the Depot Committee and attempt to arrange for the appeals to be dealt with earlier if possible.” Pro. Bro H. Wyman. Sec. Bro E. Claridge. (Paper Ballot). Tellers Bros Parker & Harris. 20 for, 13 against.

Meeting closed at 1.45 a.m. F. L. Stokes.

Meeting held on Tuesday, Nov 28, 1955. Rushden Canteen

The Meeting opened at 10.20 a.m. with 10 members present.

Duty 5. The report period 6.15 a.m. to 7.40 a.m. was discussed and the following resolution ensued “That the report period 6.15 to 7.40 be deleted from Duty 5 unless, whosoever are on this Duty and are asked to take another Duty are allowed to keep the second duty if they so desire.” Pro. Bro Richardson H. Sec. Bro Tobin R. Carried.

The method of paying in, etc. was discussed following which the resolution was “That we have a cashier for all duties paying in, or conductors on late duties be allowed to keep cash overnight and pay in next day or as an alternative a witness from the conducting staff be present at the morning cashing up.” Pro. Bro Richardson H. Sec. Bro Farrow S.

C. E. Martin.

Result of 1955/56 Committee Ballot.

Branch chairman

Branch Sec.

Final figures from All Depots

Crank 346, Benford 117, March 274, Rich 103, Wittering 80.

C. E. Martin.

Meeting at Rushden Depot, May 14th, 1956.

Meeting opened at 10.50 a.m. chairman Bro H. Richardson.

New proposed Sunday duties were discussed, and it was resolved “That Duty 218 would be accepted providing there was report period inserted in Duty 219 from 3.45 to 4.50 making a total of 8 hrs 15 mins.” Pro. Stokes L. Sec. Roast G. 25 voted. Carried unanimously.

It was resolved “That no Sunday duty should start after 3.45 p.m.” This to be sent to Bro Walden hoping to get included in Executive Minutes. Pro. Stokes L. Sec. Britchford L. 22 voted. Carried unanimously.

One Man Operation buses were discussed, it was resolved “That Depot Committees contact all drivers and men on Driving Instruction Rota to sign a petition to refuse to operate One Man Buses.” To be referred to Branch. Pro. Britchford L. Sec. Roast G. Carried unanimously. 22 voted.

It was resolved “That ‘Daily Detail’ be posted 48 hours in advance.” Pro Wyman H. Sec. Stokes L. Carried unanimously. 20 voted.

Sunday Spare was discussed, the general feeling was that it should be rotarised.

A.O.B. It was proposed “That Sunday Duty 205 continues to Raunds at 9.19 p.m. connecting at Chowns Mill with the 8.55 p.m. bus from Kettering. Returning from Raunds at 9.55 p.m. to connect at Chowns Mill with the 10.05 p.m. bus from Rushden to Kettering. There being at the moment a 1 hr interval between 8.50 p.m. and 9.59 p.m. on Sundays.” Pro. Britchford L. Sec. Roast G. Carried unan. 18 voted.

Meeting closed at 11.50 a.m. F. Parker.

Meeting at Rushden Depot. May 26th, 1956.

Commenced at 11.30 a.m. Chairman Bro H. Richardson. 15 members present.

New proposal concerning Duty 218 was “We do not work on Sundays until our previous resolution has been adhered to.” Pro. Bro R. Whitney. Sec. Bro Davison. Voting by show of hands. 7 for, 3 against, 5 abstained.

Next meeting proposed for midnight on Saturday with Bro Walden to attend if convenient.

Meeting closed 11.50 a.m. F. Parker.

Meeting at Rushden Depot May 30th, 1956 at 11.15 a.m.

Proposed by Bro H. Wyman. Sec. Bro J. Mumford. “That we accept Company’s offer in respect of Duty 218 to report for duty at 4 p.m. instead of 4.50 p.m.” was accepted unanimously.

Meeting closed at 11.45 a.m. F. Parker.

Meeting at Rushden Depot July 26th. at 10.30 a.m.

Proposed time check on Town Service on Saturday 1.15 p.m. to finish on Sundays 6.51 p.m. to 8.51 p.m. Also time check on service 418 on the 7.55 a.m. journey and return. Proposals carried unanimously.

Protest to Rushden council by letter about the lay by at the Lightstrung Bus Stop.

Meeting closed at 11.45 a.m.

Meeting held on Friday, 5th Oct. 1956 at 10.30 a.m. with a reasonable attendance.

Duty 418 was again discussed and it was proposed by Bro L. Stokes. Sec. H. Clarke to ask again for the 4 mins extra running time as first asked for in each direction.

A lengthy discussion was then held on the extension of the Town Service, all members present were satisfied it would be workable on weekdays apart from one isolated journey the 11.45 a.m. Coronation Ave to Queen St but were very doubtful about weekends during peak periods. It was proposed by Bro H. Clark, Sec. Bro R. Drage “That a Time Check be held from 1.15 p.m. to 5.15 p.m. on a Saturday with the Chairman Bro H. Richardson present on the service vehicle.

The extension to Duty 6 booking on at 6.00 a.m. instead of 6.15 a.m. and going to Bozeat instead of Wollaston to start the journey was met with a lot of doubt as to what would happen later on with the 418 service. No decision was made and was left for next meeting.

At the last Branch Meeting it was decided to ban all overtime until the Company agreed to negotiate on all outstanding items i.e. Closing up of Annual Holidays, spread Over payment on all time worked etc. No decision was asked for at this meeting to allow all members plenty of time to think and talk things over.

It was decided to call next meeting on Sunday, 7th Oct, 1956 at 10.30 a.m. Pro. L. Stokes. Sec. H. Clark.

Meeting closed at 11.50 a.m. H. Richardson. F. Parker. H. Smith.

Meeting held on Sunday, 7th October 1956, 10.30 a.m.

The Branch decision was carried unanimously “To ban overtime until our demands from the Company were met, to commence on Sunday, 14th Oct.”

Duty 6 was again discussed and it was decided to accept the new duty. Pro. Bro J. Angel. Sec. A. Harris.

H. Richardson. F. Parker.

Depot Meeting held on 23rd October at 10.35 a.m.

With Bro Richardson in the Chair, also present were Bros Walden & Smith, Bro Parker being on holiday.

Town Service was very fully discussed.

It was resolved “That we turn down very flat the decision of the Company to re-route via Skinners Hill.” Pro. Bro Britchford. Sec. Bro Tobin.

It was also resolved “That the Town Service extension would be accepted, if extra running time was given, or if it was re-routed via Park Ave.” Pro. Bro Britchford. Sec. Bro Gilbert.

Saturday Duties 114 & 127 were discussed. It was resolved “That we accept D. 114 & 127 if Kettering Depot were satisfied with alterations of Duties affecting them.” Pro. Bro Britchford. Sec. Bro Angel.

Closed at 11.45 a.m. H. Richardson (Chairman).

Depot Meeting held on 27th Sep with Bro Richardson in the Chair, also present Bro Smith.

Sunday Spare was fully discussed. It was resolved “That Sunday Spare be Rotarised, that it remains 9.00 a.m. to 5.00 p.m., that a reasonable time to be expected to work to is 6.30 p.m. to 7 p.m.” Pro. Bro Clark H. Sec. Bro Holser.

Con. Hunt complained of attitude of office Staff regarding Cash Dis. Complaints were also made about Short wages the week previous.

Meeting closed at 11.50 a.m. H. Richardson (Chairman).

Depot Meeting held 6th Dec at 10.30 a.m. with Bro Walden present, also Bros Smith, Parker & Bro Richardson who was in the Chair.

Bro Walden gave a report on a meeting with the Company on the Town Service extension. A lengthy discussion followed. It was then resolved “That we agree to operate the Town Service extension, providing we are not required to operate via Skinners Hill, and an assurance is given by Management , that examination is made after 3 months operation, to ascertain whether or not the running time is sufficient.”

The bus stop at the bottom of Wymington Rd was discussed, the Committee to raise it again with Management.

The Meeting closed at 11.50 a.m. H. Richardson (Chairman).

Depot Meeting held on Dec 13th, 1956 at 10.45 a.m. with Bro March present.

Bro March gave a report on the cuts likely to be faced, due to the fuel rationing after which Bro March answered questions put by the Members in this position.

Bro March outlined the fare increase.

New Sunday Duties to Start on 23rd Dec. These would also operate on the 26th and 30th Dec.

The Town Service turn round was asked about i.e. Coro Av end. H. Richardson, Chairman.

Depot Meeting held on 28th Dec, 1956 at 10.45. a.m. Bro Richardson in the Chair.

Weekend labour was discussed and it was resolved “That Rota Drivers be asked before Saturday, whether they will be available for a reasonable amount of overtime on Saturday either in front or after a duty. Reasonable meaning any part of a duty up to a 4 hour piece. Any work that cannot be covered by this method can be covered by weekend labour, apart from the two outsiders, these we consider are detrimental to the existing Staff.” Pro. Bro H. Clark. Sec. Bro R. Tobin.

It was proposed “That pay should start at 4.00 p.m. on any Duty any Day.” Pro. Bro L. Britchford. Sec. Bro R. Tobin. H. Richardson, Chairman. L. Stokes. H. Williams.

Depot Meeting held on Feb 8th, 1957 at 10.30 a.m. with good attendance.

New Rota and duties were discussed, a general dissatisfaction of complete Rota was shown.

The main points were as follows:

Duty 5. The crew concerned not to go out before 6.25 a.m. until an agreement is reached.

Duty 7B. Wednesday. Is felt that a report period is unnecessary in a long spreadover.

Duty 8. the dinner time workers bus from J. Whites H. Ferrers to Lightstrung Rushden be permitted to Depot to enable crew to have dinner.

Duty 14. Sufficient time is not allowed on the 4.03 p.m. Rushden to Newton and returning via Court Estate and Bedford Rd. It is requested that same time is allowed as for the a.m. journey. That someone be present to conduct children across road.

Duty 16, 17B, 17C. Request for 5 mins extra booking on time to allow for turning round at Lightstrung. At present 12.10 relief and 12.10 to Northampton.

Duties 21 and 27. Completely unsuitable and request a different build up of both duties giving a thought to meal breaks at convenient times.

Request the return of lost intermediate duty to include the Coop to Irchester and the 2.20 a.m. Rushden to Kettering, ill feeling in the Depot is being caused through giving away that which was our work to other Depots.

It is the wish of all members that a meeting with Mr Robinson be held as soon as possible with all the Depot.

The Inspector on duty in the morning not to take out any service buses.

Bus stop signs be placed in Kent Rd.

Saturday mornings Spare. At present 6.00 a.m. to 8.00 a.m. and 8.00 a.m. to 12.00 noon. Requested 6.00 a.m. to 9 a.m., 9.00 a.m. to 12.00 noon.

Request the return of report period in front of Sun Duty No. 219.

Sunday Duty No 210 request the return to original duty or 1½ hrs then work or report period be put in existing duty.

Meeting closed 11.45 a.m. F. Parker. H. Smith for Depot committee.

Depot Meeting held on 22nd Jan 57.

Bro Richardson in the Chair.

New proposed Sunday duties were discussed.

It was resolved “We reject New Sunday Duties. 2 more Duties to be made.

Points to be borne in mind for future Sun Duties:

1. Abolition of Spreadovers.

2. Maximum 60 mins unpaid in any Duty.

3. Reduction of Town Service blocks to 2 hours.

4. No Duty to (start) after 4 p.m.

5. Increased running time on 4.13 via Polwell Lane.

6. No Duty to be paid less than £20.

Proposed new Duties will not be worked until these 6 points are adhered to, and a satisfactory conclusion is reached.” Pro. Bro Clark H. Sec. Bro Harris R.

It was resolved “That T26 does 1.20 Newton duty & continues to Raunds instead of being relieved at 1.48.” Pro. Bro Clark H. Dec. Bro Stokes L.

Meeting closed 11.50 a.m. H. Richardson, Chairman.

Depot Meeting held March 6, 1957.

Further discussions on New Sunday Duties. These New Duties conformed with 4 of the points raised at Depot Meeting held 22 Jan 57.

It was resolved “We reject the New Sunday Duties and ask that the Kettering journeys which previously belonged to Rushden Depot replace as much of the Reports Periods as possible by rescheduling the whole of the Sunday Duties.” Pro. Bro Stokes L. Sec. Bro Tobin R. 13 voted, 5 ab.

Meeting closed 11.50 a.m. H. Richardson, Chairman.

Depot Meeting held 13-3-57 at 2.0 p.m.

With Bros Walden, March & Crank and Depot Committee present.

There was a good attendance.

The proposed new Sunday Duties were discussed fully.

The Meeting was informed that the Branch recommended that Rushden Depot resume work on Sunday, 17th March. Bro Parker accepted Bro Walden’s explanation regards Mr Robinson’s accusations. H. Richardson, for Chairman.

Depot Meeting held 25-3-57 at 10.30 a.m.

A report was given to the Members on the Meeting with Company i.e. Transfer of Work, canteen etc. this was discussed, but no resolution followed.

The new agreement operational date was as Wednesday, 27th March.

A.O.B. Pro. Bro Johnson. Sec. Bro Wyman H “That the union be asked to help financially towards the outstanding Debts of Rushden Depot Canteen.” This was noted for the next Branch Meeting. H. Richardson, for Chairman.

Depot Meeting, 25th July 1957, 10.00 a.m., was held at the Rushden Boot & shoe Union office.

The full Depot & Strike Committee was present, there was a good attendance.

The pay award was discussed fully and it was resolved “We, the members of the Rushden Depot are totally dissatisfied with the award accepted. We consider that the last week has been totally wasted. We demand the resignation of our Delegate after his remarks on T.V.” Pro. Bro J. Mumford, Sec. Bro L. Britchford. Carried unanimously.

It was suggested a letter of thanks be sent to the NBSOU, also suggested was a contribution list for the NBSOU Benevolent Fund or any such fund, if the reporting centre was not charged for.

The meeting closed at 11.45 a.m. H. Richardson, Sec.

Accepted true record. Pro S.Farrow, sec. L. Stokes.

Depot Meeting held August 23rd, 1957, with Bro March present and the full Depot Committee.

Bro March gave a full report on wage award. He also informed the Meeting that the resolution passed at the last Depot Meeting was out of order.

The Branch Fund was also discussed from which came this resolution “The Branch Fund be raised to 3d per week.” Pro. S. Farrow. Sec. M. Holser.

The Meeting closed at 11.45 a.m. H. Richardson (Sec).

Election of Branch Officers & Depot Committee.

29th November 1957. Scrutineers H. Perkins, J. Mumford.