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Farewell to the Welfare State + Welcome to the Spiv Economy (18*)

,Barbican Cinema 3
Filming Welcome to the Spiv Economy

A double-bill of abrasively radical films by two workshops – Trade Films and Newsreel Collective – with strong links to local labour movements.

The films of Gateshead-based Trade Films tackled issues directly affecting working-class communities in the North East. Farewell to the Welfare State, an early production, examines the birth of the welfare system in the UK and its future under the Thatcher government. The first of a three-part season on the welfare state, it was controversial; the government demanded a ‘right to reply’ in a fourth programme.

Down in London, Newsreel Collective also made films about working-class life. Intended for use in political campaigns, their subjects included abortion, housing, and industrial action. Made during the industrial decline and rising unemployment of the 1980s, their Welcome to the Spiv Economy is a study of the burgeoning numbers of people in casual and temporary jobs – a reminder that the ‘gig’ or ‘spiv’ economy is not a new phenomenon.

Tagged with: Cinema The Television Will Be Revolutionised

UK 1986 Trade Films 53 min

UK 1986 Newsreel Collective 52 min

*This film has been locally classified by the City of London Corporation

Photo of Barbican Cinema red seats

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Barbican Cinema 3

Location
Barbican Cinema 2 & 3 are located on Beech Street, a short walk from the Barbican’s Silk Street entrance. From Silk Street, you’ll see a zebra crossing that will take you across the road to the venue. 

Address
Beech Street
London
EC2Y 8DS

Public transport
The Barbican is widely accessible by bus, tube, train and by foot or bicycle. Plan your journey and find more route information in ‘Your Visit’ or book your car parking space in advance.