Robinson successfully defended his school from closure, fought for the unification of the teaching unions, mentored future trade union leaders and transformed teaching at the Marx Memorial Library, writes JOHN FOSTER

THESE are extraordinary times. As the Tory government teeters from one crisis to another, and the markets tumble, the trade unions are on the move.
It feels like we are on the brink of a major struggle between the labour movement and those in power, but for many, it is simply a battle for survival.
The last six months have seen an intensification of industrial militancy across a number of sectors, notably on the railways and London Underground, among postal and telecom workers as well as dockers in Liverpool and Felixstowe. Without doubt, the unions are rediscovering their strength.



