GMB Congress demands justice for the Chinese Seafarers

Chinese seafarers who were deported after service during World War II deserve justice, recognition and remembrance, says GMB Congress

GMB’s National Congress, taking place this week in Blackpool today [Thursday] called for a formal apology to the families of thousands of Chinese seafarers.

After working during the Second World War in the UK’s maritime force, hundreds of these workers were deported to China for demanding equal pay and conditions to their English counterparts.

Many of the workers were returned to Shanghai without a chance to let their partners or children know.

Maria Charles, GMB Congress Delegate told Congress:

“We believe these Chinese seafarers should never have been deported.

“The deportations had been kept as a secret, partially due to the illegality of the operations.

“When Britain had depended on their work and sacrifice, they were then abandoned and silenced.

“This Congress resolves that GMB will play an active role in getting justice, recognition and remembrance for the Chinese seafarers and their families.”