1921

Poplar Rates Rebellion

Image source: islandhistory.wordpress.com

Tax protest led by George Lansbury supported by the councillors of Poplar Borough Council. On behalf of Poplar, an extremely poor borough, they held back taxes and were taken to court for non-payment. A protest march was organised from Bow to the High Court. 30 councillors were sent to prison; the men to Brixton, the women to Holloway. After 6 weeks the court succumbed to public opinion and set them free, and central government quickly passed a bill which reduced the tax burden on poorer boroughs.

The photo shows the women councillors leaving for prison: Millie Lansbury (at window),
Jeannie MacKay, Susan Lawrence and Nellie Cressall.

During their time in prison council meetings continued. The women were taxied to Brixton more than 30 times.

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Poplar Rates Rebellion

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