The original Combination Act of 1799 was repealed; groups could now meet for the purpose of improving working conditions. This was a major win for workers' rights and was a recognition of the condition of England. Given that Mary Barton was published in 1848, this opportunity for unions to form is pertinent to the novel. While controversial, the right to assemble as a worker was a landmark decision for humans rights. It represented a shift away from Parliament only defending the interests of the rich.

Gaskell, Elizabeth Mary Barton edited Jennifer Foster. 1848, Broadview Literary Texts