James Hindle (13 April 1871[1] – 31 July 1942) was a British trade unionist.

Born in Heywood, Hindle became a weaver at an early age. In 1888, he moved with his family to Burnley and became involved in the Burnley Weavers' Association. Ten years later, he was appointed as the full-time Assistant Secretary of the association.[2] In 1912, Fred Thomas, Secretary of the Burnley Weavers, lost a key vote relating to action during a lockout, and resigned, claiming that he was in poor health. Hindle, considered a more radical figure, took over the post.[3]

Hindle became involved in the Labour Party, and from 1926 to 1928 served on its National Executive Committee. He also sat on a commission investigating the cotton industry in India. In 1930, he was elected as President of the Amalgamated Weavers' Association, of which the Burnley Weavers were a constituent, holding the post for seven years.[2]

Hindle retired from his union posts in 1940, and died two years later.[2]

References

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  1. ^ 1939 England and Wales Register
  2. ^ a b c "Obituary: Mr. James Hindle", Manchester Guardian, 1 August 1942
  3. ^ Joseph L. White, The Limits of Trade Union Militancy, p.141
Trade union offices
Preceded by
Fred Thomas
Secretary of the Burnley Weavers' Association
1912 – 1940
Succeeded by
Preceded by President of the Amalgamated Weavers' Association
1930 – 1937
Succeeded by
Preceded by Cotton Group member of the General Council of the Trades Union Congress
1930 – 1937
With: Henry Boothman (1930 – 1936)
William Wood (1936 – 1937)
Succeeded by