Liebe Mutter, mir geht es gut (1972) - full transcript
The everyday life and politics of a working class man in Berlin, during a period of economic downturn in 1966-7.
Dear Mother, I'm All Right
Dear friends from West Germany!
In this booklet you have here...
you'll have found information...
on life in West Berlin.
As mayor of this city...
I can assure you that we are happy...
to welcome any friend form the West...
who comes here to share...
our life and work in Berlin.
We will do everything to help those who
come here...
to love our city and become Berliners.
So allow me to assure you:
Your future is West Berlin.
A worker who doesn't do his work...
who fights, swears at his comrades...
agitates against superiors
gets what's coming to him
The film shows how this works...
and why we consider this as normal.
Workers fighting agains increased rents...
learning from their defeats...
or fruitlessly fighting lay-offs...
and drawing their conclusions.
Finally striking and thereby discovering their
strength... beginning to change their lot.
This film shows us these workers and poses the
question why we don't regard them as normal.
Gimme something to read too.
Take your pick.
Lothar has two more.
Leave the ashtray for Lothar to clean
up.
Cheerio Scheff!
Alfred Schefczyck lived in Baden-
Wiirtemberg till 1966.
He was an assistant fitter...
in a machine factory.
He was fired during the economic crisis
of 1966.
He came to live in West Berlin and has had a
job... in the metal industry for six months.
He lives in a hostel for West German
and foreign workers.
Alfred works from 6 AM to 2.15 PM.
Look at all them fancies you're bringing!
Is all that for us?
- OK, drop it there
What the hell's that?
Let's weigh this one for the hell of it
Are you trying to be funny?
This load's over 60 pounds,
I told you before
The women can't handle this.
So take it back like a good boy
and divide it between two crates.
The galvanizers have no more crates.
That's your problem. Clear off.
Can't I leave this stuff here...
and get another crate?
Be sure to get it right.
It's too heavy again.
You can manage it like me
I still got hell from the checkers.
I need another crate.
Go some other place, I haven't got time
to find crates
You piece workers, earning a fat pay and
still moaning! And I'm just your sciffy.
You gotta understand, we're on piece
work
I'll only take crates with the exact
weight.
You see we're slaving away
We're not paid to find you crates.
Don't make me cry.
Always moaning
Here's your crate but it's the last time
I'll buy you a beer.
Haven't you got an old crate for me?
If I gave them away to you lot, what
would we do?
Are your selling them or what?
Where's all them new ones?
Bad times - more work for us
there is always something.
Hands off, scrounger!
You've got plenty
You'd like to have a go, huh?
You gone blind, or what?
They haven't been nickled yet.
Even experts can make mistakes.
Go on, you tranport expert!
Crickey, you're on high grade fuel
today!
In great form!
Me sense of duty, mate
Your sense of duty?
Don't know the word, do you?
I'll explain it.
If ever this dump goes broke... there'll
be two men left here, me and the foreman.
I'll be working and he'll supervise. And the
bosses will still get paid. That's sense of duty
And what's your wife say to that?
She counts the dough and keeps her
mouth shut.
You must be having quiet nights at home.
You said it.
Can you lend me your welder over the
weekend?
A big safe, is it?
I want to make a gate for my garden.
Do you know how to handle it?
Yes, I've seen it done...
What about the materials?
I can get some steel bars cheaply.
Go to the locksmith, he'll fix it.
My welding kit isn't very good.
How big should the gate be?
Large enough to get the car through.
Too heavy to do it with steel bars.
The mass is too great.
It'll break the hinges.
You'd better use profiles.
Can you draw it for me?
Well... I haven't got that far yet.
Better move on, Werner is watching
He can get lost.
Can you cut me some sheet-iron for a
friend?
Tomorrow, I'm busy now.
Can't I even use your cutter?
Want to clip your nails?
OK but don't get caught.
I'll take some of those scraps.
But make sure that's all you take!
Alfred Schefczyck had been a fitter.
But when he came to Berlin in 1966...
he couldn't find a suitable job.
Finally he took on the job
carrying crates... in this factory
where he thought fitters might be
needed.
He thought he wouldn't do unskilled
work for long...
Also, the foreman had given him to
understand...
he would get piece work at the first
opportunity.
Hey Kurt, you're blocking up the way!
I've had my fill waiting for you. Got to
leave it somewhere.
Your foreman was here and pulled a
face.
Hang on, you're giving me double work.
How can you go walking around, with
this pressure on here.
You stubborn bastard!
Your bloody business!
Stop it! You're messing up everything.
I need the bolts for the compressors,
this minute!
OK, I'll get you some.
If my foreman saw me doing your work...
he'd think I've nothing to do...
and without materials the turners can't
get on either.
Stop making more work! Stupid
bastard!
Nice language around here!
Do you have to yell?
What's wrong, Mr. Ulrich?
You have to wait for hours here.
Where've you been, Mr. Schefczyck?
I had my cart repaired.
You should have taken another one.
Leaving your place without permission..
I thought I better get it fixed quickly.
Repairs are not your concern.
Just dropping everything and strolling about!
And stopping Mr. Ulrich getting on with
his work.
I have to deliver my parts in time, too.
And fighting with colleages. Where do
you think you are?
You're making the whole shop
rebellious.
Try cooperating to speed things up.
What are you waiting for?
Give me a hand.
Here are your bolts.
In this confrontation with his foreman...
Alfred saw his piece work go down the
drain.
He had broken the rules.
He was furious.
But could this help him...
and against whom should he direct his
anger?
You see, if you really try...
nobody has to wait...
and you're worth your pay.
You know the economic situation is strained.
Don't be oversensitive.
THE WORKS MANAGER
Our less zealous colleagues will have to
earn their pay.
We've got orders to fill and goals to
achieve. That's no point of debate.
Our competitors aren't sleeping.
THE COMPANY DIRECTOR
We should integrate our units even more...
aiming for maximum effi ciency.
Only he who concentrates...
fully on growth will be able to survive.
Yes, I agree with you.
THE MAJORITY STOCKHOLDER
Reduce special benefits and increase
productivity.
In times of recession we must get rid of
that social crap.
We no longer need to make consession.
I certainly agree.
THE MINORITY STOCKHOLDER
We are against unnecessary
expenditure.
THE SMALL STOCKHOLDER
I do agree.
I thank you for your comments.
Next item: the distribution of profits.
RENT INCREASE AT THE HOSTEL
What are you reading, Scheff?
"The Deadly Wait"
That's crap. Lot of old rope.
Got an egg to spare?
Thanks.
Any amount of hard work won't stop
them fucking.
Why do workers always have more kids...
than other people?
They need some sort of compensation.
Polenz from 142 is moving.
His single room will be free.
Come to my office.
You can have it as promised.
I hope you're comfortable, Mr.
Schefczyck?
Only, we can't afford new furniture
every month.
See you later, then.
Goodnight, gentlemen.
Took long enough.
You don't deserve it.
I'll treat you for a drink. Come on.
In July 1967 the Government of West Berlin...
raised the rent in the hostel...
by 10 marks for each bed.
We decided to send a delegation...
of which I was a member.
We went to see the manager...
and asked for a room to hold a meeting.
I refuse to enter into a discussion.
You have your arguments, I have mine.
Besides, I'm not the right person...
the increases come from above...
and they'll have their reasons.
We'd like to know about those reasons.
If you don't like it you can leave.
I won't give you a room for your
meeting, I want quiet.
We must all stick together on this. This
time it's 10 marks...
If we don't react, it will be 20 the next
time.
What can we do, just 7 or 8 of us?
You saw Kriiger's face.
Tell him we're all leaving...
he'll just laugh.
But I listened around today.
Nobody will fight for 10 marks.
Because everybody's afraid, Kriiger can do as
he likes. Because you're all scared shitless.
You have to be secure to speak up.
You're right. Cheers!
We need a strong base to start
something.
And what could that be?
We're here from West Germany because
they need us.
That's where we should put in the
wedge.
OK, then we'll leave again.
So if we let the pulic know...
if we let them know what's happening...
some of those gentlemen might not like
it.
Having to smuggle women through
windows...
Stop yelling. Want everyone to hear?
That'll interest some people: 240 marks
for a room..
with four beds, or even more...
and that Kriiger can throw someone out
for speaking up...
- A communist.
- He wasn't!
Of course he was"
Who else talks about "expropriations™?
All this talking won't help because no
one will follow us.
I think they'll come along...
and I tell you it won't work.
Let's find out who'll go on a rents strike.
Blimey, what the hell's that
If enough people don't pay the rent,
they'll have to listen.
Yes, if...
That's why I propose...
to collect a list of signatures first.
Signatures! I thought you wanted to
fight.
Got a better idea?
And where will that get us?
We must know who's prepared to act.
We'll make a list, and I'll explain
it to them. And then they'll sign.
Doesn't sound bad.
But what if that list gets into the wrong
hands?
They'll all be kicked out.
They're all glad to have this place.
No reason to say thanks when they kick
us.
Besides, if you go into lodgings...
that'll cost you 130 marks or more.
It won't go that far.
That's 50 marks more than here.
We won't rush into this without
thinking.
We only move if we've collected enough
signatures.
Our mates can add up.
If everybody joins in nothing will
happen.
If, if, always if...
Well - will you sign?
Yes you!
I'm not important. Ask the others.
So you're backing down now?
Do you mean to say I'm scared?
Then leave me out of it. I won't take
your insults.
Forget it. Show us your new slides.
Leave them alone!
We aren't finished yet.
Let's sleep first...
Someone might have an idea tomorrow.
You gone crazy? Want me to be kicked
out?
That's enough!
You're all nuts.
You don't understand what's happening.
This has nothing to do with politics.
The toilets are always clogged...
3 or 4 blokes a room for 200 mars...
and now 10 marks more.
And you close your eyes to it all.
We've a right to hold a meeting anytime.
But what Kriiger doesn't like...
...doesn't go
So we just shut up and forget it.
And sure the rent isn't too high. And the
rooms are even nicer for the extra 10 marks.
And what do you lot do?
You say Amen.
You'll get used to the rents.
Alfred felt the anger rising in him:
Against the rent, and the hostel manager.
And even more about dirty walls,
curtainless windows...
Anger against that way of life...
and the apathy of his comrades.
But then the thought his anger would
have no effect...
for he too was convinced there were
powerless.
Cheer up, times will change.
Not until they're shaken up properly.
So I go all that way for 20 kilos of coal...
But I couldn't let the old lady lug the
bucket.
You'll like some help too when you're
that age.
Then I'll down my pint and watch the
others go of to work.
Two more pints and a meatball!
A meatball... Where are you from?
Not from Berlin, are you?
Kempten. You wouldn't know it.
And now I'm here, whether you like it or
not.
Cool down. Suppose they've given you
a nice flat...
Money and loans to tide you over.
Main thing you like it here.
Stick to your beer and don't fight with
the West Germans.
1 do as I like.
Then tell me the difference between...
a berlin worker and one from the West.
I can tell you. We built Berlin up again...
resisted the Russians, and starved...
whilst you were stuffing yourselves.
- Don't shout!
- Leave him, he's OK.
Then the comrades came over from the
East...
and made the wages go down.
Made us cry for them, but their rate of
exchange...
made them rich over there. That's the
difference.
I caught one of you buggers at my
work...
I made him see what we are made of.
Watch it, or else!
Come and get it.
Leave the guests alone, Walter.
Let him talk.
We'll see who's made of what.
Tell me: Is a Berliner the same as a
Berliner?
What are you getting at?
Look here: This is a Berliner.
He just wants to do his job, quietly.
And what does he need to do his job?
He needs a machine.
And here's another Berliner with this
machine.
You want to pinch it from him, huh?
Why don't you go over the Wall?
Walter, be nice to our guests from the
West.
Now listen: scram, will you?
I tell you I won't be had by anyone.
Not by any boss, and no West German
bastard either!
That'll teach him!
I'll show this basard...
He hasn't had enough yet.
That's no way of showing him.
Think your yapping will help?
Think who'll benefit if you bash each
other.
Pay up now, gentlemen, and get out!
You and your stupid preaching!
SHUT DOWN OF WORKSHOP W 14
Your share from the pools: 3 marks 75
What about the rest?
It's alright for a start, isn't it?
You can talk: you ain't got a family.
Think my women cost me nothing?
W 14 made 360 marks last week.
Then it's worth it.
Trying to earn a gold medal? Working
like a madman.
So I sleep better at night.
Did the foreman slip you a cigar?
- Quiet!
- Shut up!
Did you hear they're closing W 14?
Who told you?
You turners are behind the times.
150 men on the list.
That's only rumours.
The shop committee is already
negotiating.
Tall stories.
But you hear them a lot these days.
They'll give us some of their work.
I could use some overtime money.
The taxman will get most of it.
Got a light?
If you give me a fag.
150 men?
Is it official?
I don't know.
All from W 14 or also others?
It won't be that bad.
The committee will think of something...
Today it's overtime, tomorrow short-
time...
then they fire you, then they take on
new ones...
they really deserve a kick in the ass.
We in West Berlin can't allow ourselves
the luxury...
of keeping up units that lose money...
while we can't man the profitable ones.
The company must not be hindered...
from adapting itself to the demands of
the market...
in its investments and sales policy.
The board of directors has taken note of
the facts.
We hope that you, who represent the
workers...
are now convinced of the urgency...
to transfer W 14 to the federal republic.
Of course for you shop stewards...
this is a hard decision to accept.
But be assured that we too...
don't act without reason.
The good of our company...
and the workers is our only concern.
Gentlemen...
I may have said this before...
but I'd like the restate our arguments:
When the buildings in Hannover were
bought...
we saw no purpose in it...
as there were vacant buildings in Berlin.
And we were told: Don't worry..
Hannover will merely be subcontractors
for W14
where the qualified work will be done.
We asked for guarantees.
that employment wouln't be reduced...
or even stopped entirely in Berlin.
And at that meeting you declared...
that on the contrary this would give
Berlin more work.
That's why we finally agreed to it.
And what happened?
First: It went like we prophesied.
The splitting-up of W 14 production...
only made for increased costs.
Second:
For a whole year, at our expense...
you employed unqualified labour...
because their was no skilled labour...
the market being dried up.
Third, you transfered the drilling
machine...
our only modern equipment to West
Germany.
Now that labour is available in
Hannover...
you start laying off skilled workers in
Berlin.
So you want us to agree to the closing
of W 14.
What I think is: You're using the
recession...
to increase efficiency at our expense.
Here are the facts.
You're trying to hoodwink us with your
calculations.
You have the right to check everything.
Gentlemen, let's be honest:
You bought those buildings with this
shut-down in mind.
You want our agreement to record:
"decision unanimous".
That's what we get for agreeing to you
before when...
Let's not get distracted from our
subject.
When times were good you invested
without thinking...
and now you want us to pay.
It was also profitable for the workers.
Spare us your cynicism.
You know very well the wage raises...
in the past were merely a fraction...
of what the shareholders got.
And what we're discussing today isn't
investment policy...
but reduce production.
Everything on the worker's back...
going ahead, stopping again...
The measures we are discussing now...
are due to hard economic necessities.
Two months ago it was very different.
You then told the committee...
workers would be taken on for W 14.
When did I say that?
July 18th 1967...
during a meeting.
I don't remember, do you?
No, neither do I...
Do you think we're idiots?
It's not the first time promises are
broken.
And we're the victims, as always.
Please gentlemen...
try to see it objectively
Obijectively? It's quite clear:
For the reasons we just stated...
we refuse to accept the closing of W 14.
The directors drew attention to the
benefits scheme...
which they would draw up with the
committee...
to alleviate social hardships.
with the vote came the final decision.
Those in favour raise a hand please...
Those against?...
A week later 138 people were laid off.
Come on, Alfred, this one's on me!
It's my farewell drink...
After all we had gained some kind of
respect...
even as a worker.
Sometimes we could even say:
That's no good, it should be like this.
Even to the bosses.
And there were plenty of them.
Any little upstart could think himself
boss...
if he had a white overall.
After 10 years you know how to defend
yourself...
Of course now the job's gone.
There's plenty of jobs
But you have to start all over.
And me being over 50...
I can't start all over again.
True, I survived the war.
What the Americans left standing the
Russians grabbed.
Then we were told: Let's get going.
So we started to work real hard.
We cleared the rubble.
We salvaged what we could.
Good. And then?
The French took everything
Plenty of nothing again.
Then came the monetary reform...
dried potatoes, and the new money...
And we were told: Let's try again.
After all we're Germans.
So we started again. Then came the
Economic Miracle.
And what did it do for us?
See: I'm back on the street.
Are you drunk or what?
I'm quite sober.
I'll get you some coffee.
... final discussion gives us a new
starting point.
for preparing the next meeting of the
committee.
To sum it up:
A workshop meeting has to be prepared
carefully.
We must proceed as follows:
Report on the committee's activities...
discussion of this report...
and answering the worker's questions.
I'm going back home.
I've had enough.
Just a few hours overtime and that's it.
I need a change.
They closed W 14, the bastards.
Why get so worked up?
They're doing as they always did.
Tell that to those who got kicked out.
They worked their asses off for years...
they thought that workers and management...
were together in this.
Machines were baught, the factory
expanded...
by their work.
And now it is: "No more orders...
here are your papers, we're sorry."
Just kicked out, like 10 years ago.
Some have a car, or a small bank
account.
But nothing of the millions they earned
for the factory...
And they just shut up, like they've
learned.
Yap, yap, yap... Does that get us
anywhere?
People are sacked.
They can't eat your speeches.
You have to see the whole picture.
Better tell us what to do.
Your speeches won't change anything.
Life stays like it always was.
A MANAGER'S VIEW
Some diehards are still obsessed...
by foggy ideas from the previous
century.
A small minority in a rather malevolent
way..
throw the old clichés at us...
which are as close to reality...
as a computer to a steam engine.
But we industrialists don't stand alone
any more.
Since the last war pleasing things...
have changed the image of the
exploiting bosses.
Let me quote Professor Erhard...
who says literally:
I would never have introduced...
the politics of a social economy...
without complete faith in industrial
management.
Why shouldn't I have good relations...
with my subordinates?
I do everything to create a team-spirit.
The industrial bill helps us in this.
A COUNCIL MEMBER'S VIEWS
They say we are in the same boat as the
bosses.
But the question is:
Who has to row, and who does the
steering?
Our electors say: "You sit in the
supervisory board...
smile at the bosses and get your pay.”
And even when they see us fighting for
their rights...
We haven't the power to asert these
rights.
The papers say there is plenty of work.
Maybe, but not for unskilled workers.
They've cut my pay, blow the
committee.
I'm kicked out. What were you elected
for?
You always thought nothing could
happen.
You said: "We are doing better then
ever.”
You only show up when it's too late.
Who's investing or closing down
shops?
Whose word is law here?
You are our representative.
Where's our jobs!
There are laws for everything.
Here they are, your laws!
Just stick them up yours!
Then you'll know who's the boss here.
A WORKER'S VIEW
They say prosperity has made us soft.
But as a worker I know very well...
the only security is in the graveyard.
For instance: The stockholders of A.E.G.
- Telefunken...
got 74 millions divided despite the
crisis.
And preferential shares...
giving them another 125 million.
At the same time 50 million were saved
in wages...
through rationalization and lay-offs.
If there's profit for the company our
jobs are safe.
But that shouldn't blind the workers.
They know they're in the corner
And the boss sees to it they stay there.
The workers have their own ideas...
but they should be coordinated.
PIECEWORKERS' STRIKE
In September 1967 production was
changed...
at the factory where Schefczyck
worked.
New timing charts were calculated...
around the conference table.
As a result wages went down.
This can't go on.
They'll end up doing anything they like.
Try and see it our way...
We won't raise another finger...
unless we go back to the old timing.
Why make such an issue of it.
You've been promised a new timing...
Why not wait for that.
If they say we are going to get a new
timing...
it won't be ready before Christmas.
Or even later...
And work with that new timing till then?
That means a loss of 20 marks a week.
The management knows this means...
a certain rearrangement for all of you.
You can say that again.
So they'll try to get it through quickly.
You can't tell beforehand...
that you'll lose by it. The opposite!
If they introduce new rates...
then not to give us more money.
Now please, go back to work.
Don't do anything rash!
We've shown that we can pull our
weight...
if necessary.
- That's right...
The company can't complain.
It paid off for you, didn't it?
Even more for the company...
But we can't agree to these rates.
The other shops don't complain.
We don't give a damn.
A big mouth for an unskilled worker.
What's that got to do with it.
Tell the management we don't accept
their rates...
and want the proper timing rates, right
now.
As soon as they promise this...
we go back to work. Tell ‘em that.
Just watch him rush out.
Today he's earning his money.
Better save some energy for his wife.
The galvanizers are on strike against
the new rates.
They really raising hell?
Erwin, come here!
Stop working, and watch them come to
time us.
I like your optimism.
You should join in, you have some
influence.
If you join in, they'll follow you.
They've never yet taken a new timing.
We've been had again, serves us right.
You know what I think.
What's happening?
You know, I just got three more years...
Then I can retire.
If I get thrown out now, you
understand...
Leo, have you heard?
The galvanizers are on strike!
Fritz, come here. Something's
happening.
Do you mean they're striking?
Looks like it.
Is that true?
Go and have a look, Leo.
The galvanizers, you said?
The charge hands can come to state
their claims.
Why not send the foreman?
- What do you mean?
You know...
Now things are moving.
Come, don't be shy.
Just the charge hands? Nothing doing.
The management agrees to chosen
delegates.
That's something.
They're getting the message.
They're afraid to come here...
We chose our delegates, the foreman
can show the way.
If I may give you some advice:
Don't say anything rash about the new
rates.
You haven't put them to the test yet.
One man from each section.
Go on, Leo! Back to the old rates!
But watch what you're saying.
Who's going for the drillers?
Kutte, you go for us.
Gerhard, you're our man anyway.
He knows when to speak up.
Go now, the work must go on.
You tell the other charge hands.
Colleagues, I hope you all agree...
that we can't give in.
Yes, like before...
It's a provocation, the way they treat us.
Off with you, Werner.
The charge hands should be in on this.
I think you're going a bit far.
There's the committee. Lowka's
coming!
We'll tell him a thing or two.
Why, look at who's coming!
We need you, you know them.
- Beat it.
- Why, let him talk.
You nearly missed the bus again.
What do you want?
Haven't you noticed anything yet?
We want the new rates withdrawn.
Our representatives are going to see the
management.
Kutte, Leo and I are just going.
Do you think that'll help?
Our committee has been negotiating for
3 weeks.
That's news. We never see you.
I can't be everywhere all the time.
The thing is to keep negotiating.
You'll still be negotiating in 50 years!
If we don't do anything we'll be done in
again.
Listen, Lowka:
You go and bring your committee here...
and we'll all decide what we'll say.
That the worst thing we can do.
Lowka's backing out!
If the committee gets involved in this
rash action...
we give them a stick to beat us with.
We try to prevent new lay-offs...
and you do your best to get kicked out.
Watch it, or we'll plate your ass!
We want action, right now!
Don't you see things are boiling up?
Be objective.
Try to see the other side.
You weaken your position, and mine as
well.
The management will see we don't
cooperate.
Cooperate in keeping quiet?
If you push yourselves into the
negotiations...
you'll just stiffen the fronts...
and we won't be able to get any
concessions.
You're bargaining for concessions?
We never noticed till now!
We all want the same thing.
But yours is the wrong way of going
about it.
Are you paid for handling out that crap?
- How much are you paid
- Out, Lowka!
But don't you see, the shop committee...
cannot support your strike.
‘Cause you don't want to!
We're not allowed to!
There you see, you're no use to us.
Get back to your cushy office.
You'll be safe there.
Just think who is the stronger.
Today we are!
You're a traitor to the workers!
You'll do yourselves in.
Stupid bastard...
Well, it's true, isn't it?
Lowka, stay here.
We won't negotiate, we'll just demand!
Yes, let them feel our strength.
Careful! They'll skin you alive.
We must get this under control quickly...
before some of them exploit the
situation...
How on earth could this happen?
Didn't you notice the sighs?
How! Their meeting passed off quietly...
and the foreman reported no talk about
the shut-down...
It's simply a matter of the new rates.
Surely it must have been brewing!
You never reported unrest.
Otherwise we would have been more
careful...
and introduced the rates gradually.
And now we've got this mess!
It couldn't be foreseen...
The shock of the lay-offs and the close-
down...
showed in the restraint of their shop-
committee...
And still we had no idea of their mood!
Do you think there is a certain group
behind this?
No, I think it's spontaneous.
Nothing was done to make other
sections join.
Maybe it's being done now.
And what is Lowka's position?
He is a reasonable man.
The committee itself is in the line of fire.
The delegates are with Mr. Bieler, sir.
Let them wait!
We must be aware of the seriousness of
the situation.
This is the end of the recession.
After the end of our reorganisation...
our manpower is up to optimal
numbers.
When the new orders start coming in...
we can't afford breaks in production.
We can't afford lon-lasting conflicts.
That means three things:
Their spontanious action must have no
success.
If we give in to such tactics...
we expose ourselves to anything.
So we must only let them deal with us...
through their legal channels.
Mr. Bieler, tell them we'll only talk...
to their legal representatives...
meaning to the committee.
Second point:
The strike must not be allowed to spread.
Find out what the other workers think...
especially the skilled ones.
Keep it limited to the rates.
We'll talk on that, and nothing else.
Third point:
We must confine our reactions to threats.
So long as we cannot calculate...
precisely what their reaction will be.
Don't pour oil on the fire.
Better keep on a loudmouth than stop
production.
Let the foremen spot the militants...
but do nothing before I've been
informed.
And one more thing:
If the situation gets worse...
we'll have to reconsider the rates.
But otherwise...
our motto will be:
We'll negotiate after everything's back
to normal.
Where've you been all this time?
Some things to do.
The checking section is waiting for
parts.
There's nothing to check, we're striking.
And how long is that going to last?
Go see for yourself.
You must know what you're doing.
Of course, Mr. Bieler.
First the galvanizers' delegates.
OK, let's go.
Only the galanizers' delegates.
The others please wait.
I think we should stick together
How we say it is not that important.
We all have the same to say, so...
One moment, please.
These gentlemen want to see you all
together.
Wait...
Good day, gentlemen.
Let's not complicate matters.
Let the two delegates from each
workshop...
explain their colleages' problems.
We are here together...
and want to talk to you collectively.
I am certain that you want this...
settled as quickly as possible.
As this concerns new dispositions...
and new rates for the different groups...
I think it would be better to talk...
to each group separately.
These changes affect us all together
And none of us can accept these rates.
But our work's different.
Certainly. That's why..
each shop should state its problem.
That's the quickest way to find a
solution for all.
You go ahead, you know the problem.
Having heard the statement of Gerhard
Brahm...
on the new rates...
the manager started to explain the
reorganisation measures.
He mentioned economic problems...
losses and profit, technical matters...
and said that a revision of wages was
needed...
if they were to stay competitive.
The worker Gerhard Brahm lacked
information about this.
So the manager concluded as
instructed:
Only an immediate return to work
could...
prevent strong punitive action.
Is that all you've achieved?
Negotiate? We wanted their promise.
They'll review the timing, that was all.
They'll kick us in the balls.
You backed down.
We asked for a review, didn't we.
But when? I bet not for ages.
We're the losers again.
Yes, always us...
We did our best.
You did nothing at all.
After all it's the first time...
the management talked with workers...
And maybe the committee can get
them...
to keep paying our average monthly
pay...
Yes, on the day that never comes.
The management knows what they're
doing.
They first want us to go back to work.
Or they'll set an example.
- We'll see
- You'll see...
You call that concessions?
We talked with them, didn't we?
They just gave us a lecture, that's what.
I must say their reasons don't sound
bad.
Their reasons? You didn't listen
properly.
They'll set an example, unless we
resume work.
So that's it...
Well, they're not charity.
And I have nothing to give away either.
Can you make sense of this talk,
Scheff?
You've been had, and the charge hands
just yap.
But he makes sense, too.
Wait and see what's in this for us.
The foremen alwas get something.
Don't kid yourself.
We got to keep cool.
They threatened us, that's clear.
You may understand their reasons or
not.
Werner said something true for a
charge...
they're not charity.
No guts, but a lot of wind.
Shut up, Werner's right.
As they're no charity, they'll fight to
keep these rates.
And to skin us.
Only if we go back to work again.
We must all stay here...
And the management must come to
us...
to negotiate in front of everybody.
No one gets back to work.
Don't be too sure.
This is completely stupid.
Well, we agreed with them on the next
steps...
Are you mad or what?
And they don't mind kicking a few men
out.
They promised nothing at all.
They talked about a review, nothing
else.
Isn't that enough?
Try to agree just for once.
One talks of action, the other of
reason...and the third about charity
first try to agree about something...
and then talk.
I've had enough of this.
What fuss he's making!
I never seen Harry like that.
Don't forget why we're here.
We know what their promises are worth.
I'm sick of all this shit.
Why don't some of us think something
out first.
You always find something to nag.
Shut up, or I'll make you.
Steady, you nitwit...
You said?
Take it easy, Pagels.
Don't get excited.
We must have this timing done as soon
as possible.
Let's wait till then.
Hasn't Gerhard made the point clear
enough?
They promise you that timing...
to make you go back to work...
But you don't seriously think the
result...
will be a return to the old rates.
They'll find a way to keep you down.
We just won't let them.
I think Gerhard is right.
We must have the management here.
Then they'll have to take a clear stand.
You have a fine imagination.
Don't you fool yourself.
You're 50 or 70, they can't ignore that.
Can't they - with 50 out of 2000!
But you can stop the whole works.
What are the other workshops doing?
I saw the toolmakers and the fitters...
You're right on the ball, Scheff!
But they won't go along with us yet.
They say it doesn't concern them.
So you needn't wait for them.
Can't see beyond the ends of their
noses.
They haven't been informed properly.
They'll say: Tomorrow, not today.
We've been here for two hours now...
they haven't shown up yet.
But you didn't go to see them.
They won't take a stand.
All well and good what you're saying...
but it's utopian.
You'll learn, Scheff.
And what next?
Wait for the results of the negotiations.
We aren't through yet.
What more is there to say..
They've agreed to negotiate.
Keule, come back...
And negotiations are for the committee.
Come, Kutte...
We have nothing but words, no definite
promise.
How do you expect ro get any results...
if you put your head in the noose.
We all took a risk by striking.
But that's all we can do, in these times.
Right. Stop it, Gerhard.
Who'll pay for lost time?
Not the unions, I'm sure.
Stop the fuss, Gerhard...
Let's wait a bit.
You have to be in the shit up to your
mouth...
What was that?
Come here if you want trouble.
Only an increase of profits and bigger
investments...
can help us out of this.
At this stage we cannot afford social
conflicts.
Fear of unemployment...
makes a man work conscienciously.
We must keep cool, or else...
we'll lose all we've achieved.
Everything's checked, it's all right.
So everything is quiet.
Now we must bring them back to order.
- Did you strike?
- Yes...
For what reason?
To get what's our due.
We decide on that.
We went back to work.
We must enforce the laws which protect
the peace.
Do these laws protect us, too?
That's enough! You're fired!
They gave me one hour to clear off the
grounds.
The personnel manager forbade me to
go back to the shop.
But as I had been in charge of the
timing...
I had to hand over the cards in there...
so they gave me a watchdog.
I went to change, then I went back...
to the workshop, with my watchdog.
I took the longest possible way...
so everybody could see me.
When they saw me in ordinary clothes...
I told them I was kicked out.
Most acted sorry, some got angry.
Then I went to the shop steward...
and he phoned the union... who'll
represent me in my court-case.
Nothing much will come of it.
Some compensation, maybe.
I shouldn't have said I was in the
strike...
I should have said I was their
representative...
and that I had given them some advice.
But I think the stand I took in the
personnel office..
will spurn my colleages on.
Read this an sign.
Did you write that?
Only three signatures?
Now 4, and with yours 5.
If this is ever found...
There will be trouble.
That won't help Gerhard anyway.
And now, sign.
When we've got enough, they'll
understand...
and Gerhard will come back.
You think they'll be impressed?
I'll sign when there are more...
You're a real friend.
Make your cross here.
That's hot stuff...
The workers will consider taking
action...
if this dismissal isn't revoked.
Big words...
Who'll do the organizing?
We'll see to that later.
Better know that first.
But we don't know how they will react.
You talk about action” there...
I'll sign when I know what that is.
How much rent do you pay?
80 marks
I pay 280.
- Why?
- Nothing...
Leo, I need your signature.
Just 3 from Gerhard's section?
Is that all?!
What does the committee say to this?
They don't want to upset the
negotiations.
I think it's useless.
We'll see.
I only got a few signatures.
But I talked to Axel and Leo again.
And we think, considering how all those
years...
the little man always kept quiet...
and swallowed everything...
this strike was a considerable
achievement.
Bruno would say:
It's still al long way from conscious
class struggle...
But one has to make a start somewhere.
Dear mother, I'm doing well.
Stop worrying about me.
The machine work isn't hard, I earn
more now.
I'll be moving out of the hostel soon...
1968 saw the end of the first postwar
recession.
Investments were on the increase...
The papers said:
"Recovery goes on in a satisfactory way".
Dear friends from West Germany!
In this booklet you have here...
you'll have found information...
on life in West Berlin.
As mayor of this city...
I can assure you that we are happy...
to welcome any friend form the West...
who comes here to share...
our life and work in Berlin.
We will do everything to help those who
come here...
to love our city and become Berliners.
So allow me to assure you:
Your future is West Berlin.
A worker who doesn't do his work...
who fights, swears at his comrades...
agitates against superiors
gets what's coming to him
The film shows how this works...
and why we consider this as normal.
Workers fighting agains increased rents...
learning from their defeats...
or fruitlessly fighting lay-offs...
and drawing their conclusions.
Finally striking and thereby discovering their
strength... beginning to change their lot.
This film shows us these workers and poses the
question why we don't regard them as normal.
Gimme something to read too.
Take your pick.
Lothar has two more.
Leave the ashtray for Lothar to clean
up.
Cheerio Scheff!
Alfred Schefczyck lived in Baden-
Wiirtemberg till 1966.
He was an assistant fitter...
in a machine factory.
He was fired during the economic crisis
of 1966.
He came to live in West Berlin and has had a
job... in the metal industry for six months.
He lives in a hostel for West German
and foreign workers.
Alfred works from 6 AM to 2.15 PM.
Look at all them fancies you're bringing!
Is all that for us?
- OK, drop it there
What the hell's that?
Let's weigh this one for the hell of it
Are you trying to be funny?
This load's over 60 pounds,
I told you before
The women can't handle this.
So take it back like a good boy
and divide it between two crates.
The galvanizers have no more crates.
That's your problem. Clear off.
Can't I leave this stuff here...
and get another crate?
Be sure to get it right.
It's too heavy again.
You can manage it like me
I still got hell from the checkers.
I need another crate.
Go some other place, I haven't got time
to find crates
You piece workers, earning a fat pay and
still moaning! And I'm just your sciffy.
You gotta understand, we're on piece
work
I'll only take crates with the exact
weight.
You see we're slaving away
We're not paid to find you crates.
Don't make me cry.
Always moaning
Here's your crate but it's the last time
I'll buy you a beer.
Haven't you got an old crate for me?
If I gave them away to you lot, what
would we do?
Are your selling them or what?
Where's all them new ones?
Bad times - more work for us
there is always something.
Hands off, scrounger!
You've got plenty
You'd like to have a go, huh?
You gone blind, or what?
They haven't been nickled yet.
Even experts can make mistakes.
Go on, you tranport expert!
Crickey, you're on high grade fuel
today!
In great form!
Me sense of duty, mate
Your sense of duty?
Don't know the word, do you?
I'll explain it.
If ever this dump goes broke... there'll
be two men left here, me and the foreman.
I'll be working and he'll supervise. And the
bosses will still get paid. That's sense of duty
And what's your wife say to that?
She counts the dough and keeps her
mouth shut.
You must be having quiet nights at home.
You said it.
Can you lend me your welder over the
weekend?
A big safe, is it?
I want to make a gate for my garden.
Do you know how to handle it?
Yes, I've seen it done...
What about the materials?
I can get some steel bars cheaply.
Go to the locksmith, he'll fix it.
My welding kit isn't very good.
How big should the gate be?
Large enough to get the car through.
Too heavy to do it with steel bars.
The mass is too great.
It'll break the hinges.
You'd better use profiles.
Can you draw it for me?
Well... I haven't got that far yet.
Better move on, Werner is watching
He can get lost.
Can you cut me some sheet-iron for a
friend?
Tomorrow, I'm busy now.
Can't I even use your cutter?
Want to clip your nails?
OK but don't get caught.
I'll take some of those scraps.
But make sure that's all you take!
Alfred Schefczyck had been a fitter.
But when he came to Berlin in 1966...
he couldn't find a suitable job.
Finally he took on the job
carrying crates... in this factory
where he thought fitters might be
needed.
He thought he wouldn't do unskilled
work for long...
Also, the foreman had given him to
understand...
he would get piece work at the first
opportunity.
Hey Kurt, you're blocking up the way!
I've had my fill waiting for you. Got to
leave it somewhere.
Your foreman was here and pulled a
face.
Hang on, you're giving me double work.
How can you go walking around, with
this pressure on here.
You stubborn bastard!
Your bloody business!
Stop it! You're messing up everything.
I need the bolts for the compressors,
this minute!
OK, I'll get you some.
If my foreman saw me doing your work...
he'd think I've nothing to do...
and without materials the turners can't
get on either.
Stop making more work! Stupid
bastard!
Nice language around here!
Do you have to yell?
What's wrong, Mr. Ulrich?
You have to wait for hours here.
Where've you been, Mr. Schefczyck?
I had my cart repaired.
You should have taken another one.
Leaving your place without permission..
I thought I better get it fixed quickly.
Repairs are not your concern.
Just dropping everything and strolling about!
And stopping Mr. Ulrich getting on with
his work.
I have to deliver my parts in time, too.
And fighting with colleages. Where do
you think you are?
You're making the whole shop
rebellious.
Try cooperating to speed things up.
What are you waiting for?
Give me a hand.
Here are your bolts.
In this confrontation with his foreman...
Alfred saw his piece work go down the
drain.
He had broken the rules.
He was furious.
But could this help him...
and against whom should he direct his
anger?
You see, if you really try...
nobody has to wait...
and you're worth your pay.
You know the economic situation is strained.
Don't be oversensitive.
THE WORKS MANAGER
Our less zealous colleagues will have to
earn their pay.
We've got orders to fill and goals to
achieve. That's no point of debate.
Our competitors aren't sleeping.
THE COMPANY DIRECTOR
We should integrate our units even more...
aiming for maximum effi ciency.
Only he who concentrates...
fully on growth will be able to survive.
Yes, I agree with you.
THE MAJORITY STOCKHOLDER
Reduce special benefits and increase
productivity.
In times of recession we must get rid of
that social crap.
We no longer need to make consession.
I certainly agree.
THE MINORITY STOCKHOLDER
We are against unnecessary
expenditure.
THE SMALL STOCKHOLDER
I do agree.
I thank you for your comments.
Next item: the distribution of profits.
RENT INCREASE AT THE HOSTEL
What are you reading, Scheff?
"The Deadly Wait"
That's crap. Lot of old rope.
Got an egg to spare?
Thanks.
Any amount of hard work won't stop
them fucking.
Why do workers always have more kids...
than other people?
They need some sort of compensation.
Polenz from 142 is moving.
His single room will be free.
Come to my office.
You can have it as promised.
I hope you're comfortable, Mr.
Schefczyck?
Only, we can't afford new furniture
every month.
See you later, then.
Goodnight, gentlemen.
Took long enough.
You don't deserve it.
I'll treat you for a drink. Come on.
In July 1967 the Government of West Berlin...
raised the rent in the hostel...
by 10 marks for each bed.
We decided to send a delegation...
of which I was a member.
We went to see the manager...
and asked for a room to hold a meeting.
I refuse to enter into a discussion.
You have your arguments, I have mine.
Besides, I'm not the right person...
the increases come from above...
and they'll have their reasons.
We'd like to know about those reasons.
If you don't like it you can leave.
I won't give you a room for your
meeting, I want quiet.
We must all stick together on this. This
time it's 10 marks...
If we don't react, it will be 20 the next
time.
What can we do, just 7 or 8 of us?
You saw Kriiger's face.
Tell him we're all leaving...
he'll just laugh.
But I listened around today.
Nobody will fight for 10 marks.
Because everybody's afraid, Kriiger can do as
he likes. Because you're all scared shitless.
You have to be secure to speak up.
You're right. Cheers!
We need a strong base to start
something.
And what could that be?
We're here from West Germany because
they need us.
That's where we should put in the
wedge.
OK, then we'll leave again.
So if we let the pulic know...
if we let them know what's happening...
some of those gentlemen might not like
it.
Having to smuggle women through
windows...
Stop yelling. Want everyone to hear?
That'll interest some people: 240 marks
for a room..
with four beds, or even more...
and that Kriiger can throw someone out
for speaking up...
- A communist.
- He wasn't!
Of course he was"
Who else talks about "expropriations™?
All this talking won't help because no
one will follow us.
I think they'll come along...
and I tell you it won't work.
Let's find out who'll go on a rents strike.
Blimey, what the hell's that
If enough people don't pay the rent,
they'll have to listen.
Yes, if...
That's why I propose...
to collect a list of signatures first.
Signatures! I thought you wanted to
fight.
Got a better idea?
And where will that get us?
We must know who's prepared to act.
We'll make a list, and I'll explain
it to them. And then they'll sign.
Doesn't sound bad.
But what if that list gets into the wrong
hands?
They'll all be kicked out.
They're all glad to have this place.
No reason to say thanks when they kick
us.
Besides, if you go into lodgings...
that'll cost you 130 marks or more.
It won't go that far.
That's 50 marks more than here.
We won't rush into this without
thinking.
We only move if we've collected enough
signatures.
Our mates can add up.
If everybody joins in nothing will
happen.
If, if, always if...
Well - will you sign?
Yes you!
I'm not important. Ask the others.
So you're backing down now?
Do you mean to say I'm scared?
Then leave me out of it. I won't take
your insults.
Forget it. Show us your new slides.
Leave them alone!
We aren't finished yet.
Let's sleep first...
Someone might have an idea tomorrow.
You gone crazy? Want me to be kicked
out?
That's enough!
You're all nuts.
You don't understand what's happening.
This has nothing to do with politics.
The toilets are always clogged...
3 or 4 blokes a room for 200 mars...
and now 10 marks more.
And you close your eyes to it all.
We've a right to hold a meeting anytime.
But what Kriiger doesn't like...
...doesn't go
So we just shut up and forget it.
And sure the rent isn't too high. And the
rooms are even nicer for the extra 10 marks.
And what do you lot do?
You say Amen.
You'll get used to the rents.
Alfred felt the anger rising in him:
Against the rent, and the hostel manager.
And even more about dirty walls,
curtainless windows...
Anger against that way of life...
and the apathy of his comrades.
But then the thought his anger would
have no effect...
for he too was convinced there were
powerless.
Cheer up, times will change.
Not until they're shaken up properly.
So I go all that way for 20 kilos of coal...
But I couldn't let the old lady lug the
bucket.
You'll like some help too when you're
that age.
Then I'll down my pint and watch the
others go of to work.
Two more pints and a meatball!
A meatball... Where are you from?
Not from Berlin, are you?
Kempten. You wouldn't know it.
And now I'm here, whether you like it or
not.
Cool down. Suppose they've given you
a nice flat...
Money and loans to tide you over.
Main thing you like it here.
Stick to your beer and don't fight with
the West Germans.
1 do as I like.
Then tell me the difference between...
a berlin worker and one from the West.
I can tell you. We built Berlin up again...
resisted the Russians, and starved...
whilst you were stuffing yourselves.
- Don't shout!
- Leave him, he's OK.
Then the comrades came over from the
East...
and made the wages go down.
Made us cry for them, but their rate of
exchange...
made them rich over there. That's the
difference.
I caught one of you buggers at my
work...
I made him see what we are made of.
Watch it, or else!
Come and get it.
Leave the guests alone, Walter.
Let him talk.
We'll see who's made of what.
Tell me: Is a Berliner the same as a
Berliner?
What are you getting at?
Look here: This is a Berliner.
He just wants to do his job, quietly.
And what does he need to do his job?
He needs a machine.
And here's another Berliner with this
machine.
You want to pinch it from him, huh?
Why don't you go over the Wall?
Walter, be nice to our guests from the
West.
Now listen: scram, will you?
I tell you I won't be had by anyone.
Not by any boss, and no West German
bastard either!
That'll teach him!
I'll show this basard...
He hasn't had enough yet.
That's no way of showing him.
Think your yapping will help?
Think who'll benefit if you bash each
other.
Pay up now, gentlemen, and get out!
You and your stupid preaching!
SHUT DOWN OF WORKSHOP W 14
Your share from the pools: 3 marks 75
What about the rest?
It's alright for a start, isn't it?
You can talk: you ain't got a family.
Think my women cost me nothing?
W 14 made 360 marks last week.
Then it's worth it.
Trying to earn a gold medal? Working
like a madman.
So I sleep better at night.
Did the foreman slip you a cigar?
- Quiet!
- Shut up!
Did you hear they're closing W 14?
Who told you?
You turners are behind the times.
150 men on the list.
That's only rumours.
The shop committee is already
negotiating.
Tall stories.
But you hear them a lot these days.
They'll give us some of their work.
I could use some overtime money.
The taxman will get most of it.
Got a light?
If you give me a fag.
150 men?
Is it official?
I don't know.
All from W 14 or also others?
It won't be that bad.
The committee will think of something...
Today it's overtime, tomorrow short-
time...
then they fire you, then they take on
new ones...
they really deserve a kick in the ass.
We in West Berlin can't allow ourselves
the luxury...
of keeping up units that lose money...
while we can't man the profitable ones.
The company must not be hindered...
from adapting itself to the demands of
the market...
in its investments and sales policy.
The board of directors has taken note of
the facts.
We hope that you, who represent the
workers...
are now convinced of the urgency...
to transfer W 14 to the federal republic.
Of course for you shop stewards...
this is a hard decision to accept.
But be assured that we too...
don't act without reason.
The good of our company...
and the workers is our only concern.
Gentlemen...
I may have said this before...
but I'd like the restate our arguments:
When the buildings in Hannover were
bought...
we saw no purpose in it...
as there were vacant buildings in Berlin.
And we were told: Don't worry..
Hannover will merely be subcontractors
for W14
where the qualified work will be done.
We asked for guarantees.
that employment wouln't be reduced...
or even stopped entirely in Berlin.
And at that meeting you declared...
that on the contrary this would give
Berlin more work.
That's why we finally agreed to it.
And what happened?
First: It went like we prophesied.
The splitting-up of W 14 production...
only made for increased costs.
Second:
For a whole year, at our expense...
you employed unqualified labour...
because their was no skilled labour...
the market being dried up.
Third, you transfered the drilling
machine...
our only modern equipment to West
Germany.
Now that labour is available in
Hannover...
you start laying off skilled workers in
Berlin.
So you want us to agree to the closing
of W 14.
What I think is: You're using the
recession...
to increase efficiency at our expense.
Here are the facts.
You're trying to hoodwink us with your
calculations.
You have the right to check everything.
Gentlemen, let's be honest:
You bought those buildings with this
shut-down in mind.
You want our agreement to record:
"decision unanimous".
That's what we get for agreeing to you
before when...
Let's not get distracted from our
subject.
When times were good you invested
without thinking...
and now you want us to pay.
It was also profitable for the workers.
Spare us your cynicism.
You know very well the wage raises...
in the past were merely a fraction...
of what the shareholders got.
And what we're discussing today isn't
investment policy...
but reduce production.
Everything on the worker's back...
going ahead, stopping again...
The measures we are discussing now...
are due to hard economic necessities.
Two months ago it was very different.
You then told the committee...
workers would be taken on for W 14.
When did I say that?
July 18th 1967...
during a meeting.
I don't remember, do you?
No, neither do I...
Do you think we're idiots?
It's not the first time promises are
broken.
And we're the victims, as always.
Please gentlemen...
try to see it objectively
Obijectively? It's quite clear:
For the reasons we just stated...
we refuse to accept the closing of W 14.
The directors drew attention to the
benefits scheme...
which they would draw up with the
committee...
to alleviate social hardships.
with the vote came the final decision.
Those in favour raise a hand please...
Those against?...
A week later 138 people were laid off.
Come on, Alfred, this one's on me!
It's my farewell drink...
After all we had gained some kind of
respect...
even as a worker.
Sometimes we could even say:
That's no good, it should be like this.
Even to the bosses.
And there were plenty of them.
Any little upstart could think himself
boss...
if he had a white overall.
After 10 years you know how to defend
yourself...
Of course now the job's gone.
There's plenty of jobs
But you have to start all over.
And me being over 50...
I can't start all over again.
True, I survived the war.
What the Americans left standing the
Russians grabbed.
Then we were told: Let's get going.
So we started to work real hard.
We cleared the rubble.
We salvaged what we could.
Good. And then?
The French took everything
Plenty of nothing again.
Then came the monetary reform...
dried potatoes, and the new money...
And we were told: Let's try again.
After all we're Germans.
So we started again. Then came the
Economic Miracle.
And what did it do for us?
See: I'm back on the street.
Are you drunk or what?
I'm quite sober.
I'll get you some coffee.
... final discussion gives us a new
starting point.
for preparing the next meeting of the
committee.
To sum it up:
A workshop meeting has to be prepared
carefully.
We must proceed as follows:
Report on the committee's activities...
discussion of this report...
and answering the worker's questions.
I'm going back home.
I've had enough.
Just a few hours overtime and that's it.
I need a change.
They closed W 14, the bastards.
Why get so worked up?
They're doing as they always did.
Tell that to those who got kicked out.
They worked their asses off for years...
they thought that workers and management...
were together in this.
Machines were baught, the factory
expanded...
by their work.
And now it is: "No more orders...
here are your papers, we're sorry."
Just kicked out, like 10 years ago.
Some have a car, or a small bank
account.
But nothing of the millions they earned
for the factory...
And they just shut up, like they've
learned.
Yap, yap, yap... Does that get us
anywhere?
People are sacked.
They can't eat your speeches.
You have to see the whole picture.
Better tell us what to do.
Your speeches won't change anything.
Life stays like it always was.
A MANAGER'S VIEW
Some diehards are still obsessed...
by foggy ideas from the previous
century.
A small minority in a rather malevolent
way..
throw the old clichés at us...
which are as close to reality...
as a computer to a steam engine.
But we industrialists don't stand alone
any more.
Since the last war pleasing things...
have changed the image of the
exploiting bosses.
Let me quote Professor Erhard...
who says literally:
I would never have introduced...
the politics of a social economy...
without complete faith in industrial
management.
Why shouldn't I have good relations...
with my subordinates?
I do everything to create a team-spirit.
The industrial bill helps us in this.
A COUNCIL MEMBER'S VIEWS
They say we are in the same boat as the
bosses.
But the question is:
Who has to row, and who does the
steering?
Our electors say: "You sit in the
supervisory board...
smile at the bosses and get your pay.”
And even when they see us fighting for
their rights...
We haven't the power to asert these
rights.
The papers say there is plenty of work.
Maybe, but not for unskilled workers.
They've cut my pay, blow the
committee.
I'm kicked out. What were you elected
for?
You always thought nothing could
happen.
You said: "We are doing better then
ever.”
You only show up when it's too late.
Who's investing or closing down
shops?
Whose word is law here?
You are our representative.
Where's our jobs!
There are laws for everything.
Here they are, your laws!
Just stick them up yours!
Then you'll know who's the boss here.
A WORKER'S VIEW
They say prosperity has made us soft.
But as a worker I know very well...
the only security is in the graveyard.
For instance: The stockholders of A.E.G.
- Telefunken...
got 74 millions divided despite the
crisis.
And preferential shares...
giving them another 125 million.
At the same time 50 million were saved
in wages...
through rationalization and lay-offs.
If there's profit for the company our
jobs are safe.
But that shouldn't blind the workers.
They know they're in the corner
And the boss sees to it they stay there.
The workers have their own ideas...
but they should be coordinated.
PIECEWORKERS' STRIKE
In September 1967 production was
changed...
at the factory where Schefczyck
worked.
New timing charts were calculated...
around the conference table.
As a result wages went down.
This can't go on.
They'll end up doing anything they like.
Try and see it our way...
We won't raise another finger...
unless we go back to the old timing.
Why make such an issue of it.
You've been promised a new timing...
Why not wait for that.
If they say we are going to get a new
timing...
it won't be ready before Christmas.
Or even later...
And work with that new timing till then?
That means a loss of 20 marks a week.
The management knows this means...
a certain rearrangement for all of you.
You can say that again.
So they'll try to get it through quickly.
You can't tell beforehand...
that you'll lose by it. The opposite!
If they introduce new rates...
then not to give us more money.
Now please, go back to work.
Don't do anything rash!
We've shown that we can pull our
weight...
if necessary.
- That's right...
The company can't complain.
It paid off for you, didn't it?
Even more for the company...
But we can't agree to these rates.
The other shops don't complain.
We don't give a damn.
A big mouth for an unskilled worker.
What's that got to do with it.
Tell the management we don't accept
their rates...
and want the proper timing rates, right
now.
As soon as they promise this...
we go back to work. Tell ‘em that.
Just watch him rush out.
Today he's earning his money.
Better save some energy for his wife.
The galvanizers are on strike against
the new rates.
They really raising hell?
Erwin, come here!
Stop working, and watch them come to
time us.
I like your optimism.
You should join in, you have some
influence.
If you join in, they'll follow you.
They've never yet taken a new timing.
We've been had again, serves us right.
You know what I think.
What's happening?
You know, I just got three more years...
Then I can retire.
If I get thrown out now, you
understand...
Leo, have you heard?
The galvanizers are on strike!
Fritz, come here. Something's
happening.
Do you mean they're striking?
Looks like it.
Is that true?
Go and have a look, Leo.
The galvanizers, you said?
The charge hands can come to state
their claims.
Why not send the foreman?
- What do you mean?
You know...
Now things are moving.
Come, don't be shy.
Just the charge hands? Nothing doing.
The management agrees to chosen
delegates.
That's something.
They're getting the message.
They're afraid to come here...
We chose our delegates, the foreman
can show the way.
If I may give you some advice:
Don't say anything rash about the new
rates.
You haven't put them to the test yet.
One man from each section.
Go on, Leo! Back to the old rates!
But watch what you're saying.
Who's going for the drillers?
Kutte, you go for us.
Gerhard, you're our man anyway.
He knows when to speak up.
Go now, the work must go on.
You tell the other charge hands.
Colleagues, I hope you all agree...
that we can't give in.
Yes, like before...
It's a provocation, the way they treat us.
Off with you, Werner.
The charge hands should be in on this.
I think you're going a bit far.
There's the committee. Lowka's
coming!
We'll tell him a thing or two.
Why, look at who's coming!
We need you, you know them.
- Beat it.
- Why, let him talk.
You nearly missed the bus again.
What do you want?
Haven't you noticed anything yet?
We want the new rates withdrawn.
Our representatives are going to see the
management.
Kutte, Leo and I are just going.
Do you think that'll help?
Our committee has been negotiating for
3 weeks.
That's news. We never see you.
I can't be everywhere all the time.
The thing is to keep negotiating.
You'll still be negotiating in 50 years!
If we don't do anything we'll be done in
again.
Listen, Lowka:
You go and bring your committee here...
and we'll all decide what we'll say.
That the worst thing we can do.
Lowka's backing out!
If the committee gets involved in this
rash action...
we give them a stick to beat us with.
We try to prevent new lay-offs...
and you do your best to get kicked out.
Watch it, or we'll plate your ass!
We want action, right now!
Don't you see things are boiling up?
Be objective.
Try to see the other side.
You weaken your position, and mine as
well.
The management will see we don't
cooperate.
Cooperate in keeping quiet?
If you push yourselves into the
negotiations...
you'll just stiffen the fronts...
and we won't be able to get any
concessions.
You're bargaining for concessions?
We never noticed till now!
We all want the same thing.
But yours is the wrong way of going
about it.
Are you paid for handling out that crap?
- How much are you paid
- Out, Lowka!
But don't you see, the shop committee...
cannot support your strike.
‘Cause you don't want to!
We're not allowed to!
There you see, you're no use to us.
Get back to your cushy office.
You'll be safe there.
Just think who is the stronger.
Today we are!
You're a traitor to the workers!
You'll do yourselves in.
Stupid bastard...
Well, it's true, isn't it?
Lowka, stay here.
We won't negotiate, we'll just demand!
Yes, let them feel our strength.
Careful! They'll skin you alive.
We must get this under control quickly...
before some of them exploit the
situation...
How on earth could this happen?
Didn't you notice the sighs?
How! Their meeting passed off quietly...
and the foreman reported no talk about
the shut-down...
It's simply a matter of the new rates.
Surely it must have been brewing!
You never reported unrest.
Otherwise we would have been more
careful...
and introduced the rates gradually.
And now we've got this mess!
It couldn't be foreseen...
The shock of the lay-offs and the close-
down...
showed in the restraint of their shop-
committee...
And still we had no idea of their mood!
Do you think there is a certain group
behind this?
No, I think it's spontaneous.
Nothing was done to make other
sections join.
Maybe it's being done now.
And what is Lowka's position?
He is a reasonable man.
The committee itself is in the line of fire.
The delegates are with Mr. Bieler, sir.
Let them wait!
We must be aware of the seriousness of
the situation.
This is the end of the recession.
After the end of our reorganisation...
our manpower is up to optimal
numbers.
When the new orders start coming in...
we can't afford breaks in production.
We can't afford lon-lasting conflicts.
That means three things:
Their spontanious action must have no
success.
If we give in to such tactics...
we expose ourselves to anything.
So we must only let them deal with us...
through their legal channels.
Mr. Bieler, tell them we'll only talk...
to their legal representatives...
meaning to the committee.
Second point:
The strike must not be allowed to spread.
Find out what the other workers think...
especially the skilled ones.
Keep it limited to the rates.
We'll talk on that, and nothing else.
Third point:
We must confine our reactions to threats.
So long as we cannot calculate...
precisely what their reaction will be.
Don't pour oil on the fire.
Better keep on a loudmouth than stop
production.
Let the foremen spot the militants...
but do nothing before I've been
informed.
And one more thing:
If the situation gets worse...
we'll have to reconsider the rates.
But otherwise...
our motto will be:
We'll negotiate after everything's back
to normal.
Where've you been all this time?
Some things to do.
The checking section is waiting for
parts.
There's nothing to check, we're striking.
And how long is that going to last?
Go see for yourself.
You must know what you're doing.
Of course, Mr. Bieler.
First the galvanizers' delegates.
OK, let's go.
Only the galanizers' delegates.
The others please wait.
I think we should stick together
How we say it is not that important.
We all have the same to say, so...
One moment, please.
These gentlemen want to see you all
together.
Wait...
Good day, gentlemen.
Let's not complicate matters.
Let the two delegates from each
workshop...
explain their colleages' problems.
We are here together...
and want to talk to you collectively.
I am certain that you want this...
settled as quickly as possible.
As this concerns new dispositions...
and new rates for the different groups...
I think it would be better to talk...
to each group separately.
These changes affect us all together
And none of us can accept these rates.
But our work's different.
Certainly. That's why..
each shop should state its problem.
That's the quickest way to find a
solution for all.
You go ahead, you know the problem.
Having heard the statement of Gerhard
Brahm...
on the new rates...
the manager started to explain the
reorganisation measures.
He mentioned economic problems...
losses and profit, technical matters...
and said that a revision of wages was
needed...
if they were to stay competitive.
The worker Gerhard Brahm lacked
information about this.
So the manager concluded as
instructed:
Only an immediate return to work
could...
prevent strong punitive action.
Is that all you've achieved?
Negotiate? We wanted their promise.
They'll review the timing, that was all.
They'll kick us in the balls.
You backed down.
We asked for a review, didn't we.
But when? I bet not for ages.
We're the losers again.
Yes, always us...
We did our best.
You did nothing at all.
After all it's the first time...
the management talked with workers...
And maybe the committee can get
them...
to keep paying our average monthly
pay...
Yes, on the day that never comes.
The management knows what they're
doing.
They first want us to go back to work.
Or they'll set an example.
- We'll see
- You'll see...
You call that concessions?
We talked with them, didn't we?
They just gave us a lecture, that's what.
I must say their reasons don't sound
bad.
Their reasons? You didn't listen
properly.
They'll set an example, unless we
resume work.
So that's it...
Well, they're not charity.
And I have nothing to give away either.
Can you make sense of this talk,
Scheff?
You've been had, and the charge hands
just yap.
But he makes sense, too.
Wait and see what's in this for us.
The foremen alwas get something.
Don't kid yourself.
We got to keep cool.
They threatened us, that's clear.
You may understand their reasons or
not.
Werner said something true for a
charge...
they're not charity.
No guts, but a lot of wind.
Shut up, Werner's right.
As they're no charity, they'll fight to
keep these rates.
And to skin us.
Only if we go back to work again.
We must all stay here...
And the management must come to
us...
to negotiate in front of everybody.
No one gets back to work.
Don't be too sure.
This is completely stupid.
Well, we agreed with them on the next
steps...
Are you mad or what?
And they don't mind kicking a few men
out.
They promised nothing at all.
They talked about a review, nothing
else.
Isn't that enough?
Try to agree just for once.
One talks of action, the other of
reason...and the third about charity
first try to agree about something...
and then talk.
I've had enough of this.
What fuss he's making!
I never seen Harry like that.
Don't forget why we're here.
We know what their promises are worth.
I'm sick of all this shit.
Why don't some of us think something
out first.
You always find something to nag.
Shut up, or I'll make you.
Steady, you nitwit...
You said?
Take it easy, Pagels.
Don't get excited.
We must have this timing done as soon
as possible.
Let's wait till then.
Hasn't Gerhard made the point clear
enough?
They promise you that timing...
to make you go back to work...
But you don't seriously think the
result...
will be a return to the old rates.
They'll find a way to keep you down.
We just won't let them.
I think Gerhard is right.
We must have the management here.
Then they'll have to take a clear stand.
You have a fine imagination.
Don't you fool yourself.
You're 50 or 70, they can't ignore that.
Can't they - with 50 out of 2000!
But you can stop the whole works.
What are the other workshops doing?
I saw the toolmakers and the fitters...
You're right on the ball, Scheff!
But they won't go along with us yet.
They say it doesn't concern them.
So you needn't wait for them.
Can't see beyond the ends of their
noses.
They haven't been informed properly.
They'll say: Tomorrow, not today.
We've been here for two hours now...
they haven't shown up yet.
But you didn't go to see them.
They won't take a stand.
All well and good what you're saying...
but it's utopian.
You'll learn, Scheff.
And what next?
Wait for the results of the negotiations.
We aren't through yet.
What more is there to say..
They've agreed to negotiate.
Keule, come back...
And negotiations are for the committee.
Come, Kutte...
We have nothing but words, no definite
promise.
How do you expect ro get any results...
if you put your head in the noose.
We all took a risk by striking.
But that's all we can do, in these times.
Right. Stop it, Gerhard.
Who'll pay for lost time?
Not the unions, I'm sure.
Stop the fuss, Gerhard...
Let's wait a bit.
You have to be in the shit up to your
mouth...
What was that?
Come here if you want trouble.
Only an increase of profits and bigger
investments...
can help us out of this.
At this stage we cannot afford social
conflicts.
Fear of unemployment...
makes a man work conscienciously.
We must keep cool, or else...
we'll lose all we've achieved.
Everything's checked, it's all right.
So everything is quiet.
Now we must bring them back to order.
- Did you strike?
- Yes...
For what reason?
To get what's our due.
We decide on that.
We went back to work.
We must enforce the laws which protect
the peace.
Do these laws protect us, too?
That's enough! You're fired!
They gave me one hour to clear off the
grounds.
The personnel manager forbade me to
go back to the shop.
But as I had been in charge of the
timing...
I had to hand over the cards in there...
so they gave me a watchdog.
I went to change, then I went back...
to the workshop, with my watchdog.
I took the longest possible way...
so everybody could see me.
When they saw me in ordinary clothes...
I told them I was kicked out.
Most acted sorry, some got angry.
Then I went to the shop steward...
and he phoned the union... who'll
represent me in my court-case.
Nothing much will come of it.
Some compensation, maybe.
I shouldn't have said I was in the
strike...
I should have said I was their
representative...
and that I had given them some advice.
But I think the stand I took in the
personnel office..
will spurn my colleages on.
Read this an sign.
Did you write that?
Only three signatures?
Now 4, and with yours 5.
If this is ever found...
There will be trouble.
That won't help Gerhard anyway.
And now, sign.
When we've got enough, they'll
understand...
and Gerhard will come back.
You think they'll be impressed?
I'll sign when there are more...
You're a real friend.
Make your cross here.
That's hot stuff...
The workers will consider taking
action...
if this dismissal isn't revoked.
Big words...
Who'll do the organizing?
We'll see to that later.
Better know that first.
But we don't know how they will react.
You talk about action” there...
I'll sign when I know what that is.
How much rent do you pay?
80 marks
I pay 280.
- Why?
- Nothing...
Leo, I need your signature.
Just 3 from Gerhard's section?
Is that all?!
What does the committee say to this?
They don't want to upset the
negotiations.
I think it's useless.
We'll see.
I only got a few signatures.
But I talked to Axel and Leo again.
And we think, considering how all those
years...
the little man always kept quiet...
and swallowed everything...
this strike was a considerable
achievement.
Bruno would say:
It's still al long way from conscious
class struggle...
But one has to make a start somewhere.
Dear mother, I'm doing well.
Stop worrying about me.
The machine work isn't hard, I earn
more now.
I'll be moving out of the hostel soon...
1968 saw the end of the first postwar
recession.
Investments were on the increase...
The papers said:
"Recovery goes on in a satisfactory way".