The Edinburgh Fringe Festival, a vibrant tapestry of creativity and performance, is a beacon for diverse audiences, including those with a keen interest in social and labour issues. For trade unionists, the 2024 Fringe line-up offers a plethora of shows that resonate with themes of workers’ rights, social justice, and the power of collective action.
One such show that stands out is “A Singular Deception” at The Royal Scots Club. This historical drama unveils the true story of Dr. James Barry, a surgeon who challenged 19th-century gender norms and societal expectations. The play delves into themes of identity and the struggle against rigid societal structures, echoing the unionist fight for workplace equality and representation.
Another must-see is “Shellshocked – An Explosive New Play” at Pleasance Courtyard. This powerful drama by Philip Stokes explores the psychological toll of war on soldiers, shedding light on the broader impact of conflict on society and the workforce. It’s a poignant reminder of the need for support systems for those who have served, a cause often championed by trade unions.
For a more contemporary reflection, “The Chaos That Has Been and Will No Doubt Return” at Summerhall is a high-energy production that captures the spirit of a community grappling with the effects of austerity. Set in Luton, it’s a vivid portrayal of the struggles faced by working-class communities, resonating with the unionist ethos of solidarity and support.
Adding to this rich line-up is “Chopped Liver and Unions,” a returning favourite at Paradise in Augustines – The Studio. This one-woman play gives a vivid account of the life of Sara Wesker, a trade unionist, political activist, and radical who led the singing strikers of 1928 to improve the working conditions of female garment workers in London’s East End. The play is a tale from a century ago but very much a play for today, highlighting the enduring relevance of labour movements and the sacrifices made for workers’ rights.
Lastly, “A Show for Young Men” at Assembly @ Dance Base tackles the pressing issues facing young men today, including mental health and societal pressure. By combining drama with discussion, it fosters a space for dialogue about the importance of community support, a cornerstone of trade union philosophy.
These shows are just a glimpse into the rich array of performances that the 2024 Edinburgh Fringe has to offer. They not only entertain but also provoke thought and dialogue on issues close to the heart of trade unionism. For those looking to immerse themselves in theatre that reflects their values and passions, the Fringe presents an unmatched opportunity to engage with the arts and the pressing topics of our time. Whether you’re a seasoned Fringe-goer or a first-timer, these shows promise to be both enlightening and inspiring, embodying the spirit of unity and activism that is central to the trade union movement. For more information and to book tickets, be sure to visit the official Edinburgh Fringe website.
By Pat Harrington with acknowledgements to the Counter Culture team.
In the King’s Speech Labour has laid out a legislative agenda that promises to reshape the landscape of workers’ rights and public ownership in Britain. The speech, while brief in its mention of specific policies, has set the stage for significant reforms aimed at banning exploitative practices and enhancing employment rights. This ambitious agenda has sparked enthusiasm among pro-worker and pro-union advocates, who see it as a long-overdue move towards a fairer and more equitable society.
Transformative Proposals in the Employment Rights Bill
The cornerstone of Labour’s new agenda is the Employment Rights Bill, which promises sweeping changes to improve the lives of workers across the country. The bill includes several key provisions:
Parental Leave, Sick Pay, and Protection from Unfair Dismissal: Making these benefits available from day one is a crucial step in ensuring that all workers, regardless of their employment duration, have access to basic rights. This move is particularly significant for those in precarious jobs, offering them much-needed security.
Banning Zero-Hour Contracts: Zero-hour contracts have long been criticized for their exploitative nature, providing workers with little job security and unpredictable income. By banning these contracts, Labour is addressing a major issue that has left many workers in a state of constant uncertainty.
Ending ‘Fire and Rehire’ Practices: The practice of firing employees only to rehire them on less favourable terms has been a contentious issue. Reforming the law to end this exploitative practice will protect workers from being manipulated and ensure fair treatment.
Removing the Lower Earnings Limit for Statutory Sick Pay: This change ensures that all workers, regardless of their income level, have access to sick pay. It is a vital reform, especially for low-income workers who are often most vulnerable to financial hardship when ill.
Making Flexible Working the Default: By making flexible working the default from day one, Labour is recognizing the importance of work-life balance and the diverse needs of the modern workforce. This policy is expected to particularly benefit working parents and those with caring responsibilities.
Protection for Women Post-Maternity Leave: Making it unlawful to dismiss a woman within six months of returning from maternity leave is a progressive step towards gender equality in the workplace. It ensures that women are not penalized for starting families.
Creation of the Fair Work Agency: This new agency will play a crucial role in enforcing workplace rights, ensuring that the new laws are implemented effectively and that workers can seek redress when their rights are violated.
Fair Pay Agreement in Adult Social Care: The introduction of a Fair Pay Agreement in the adult social care sector addresses the chronic underpayment and undervaluation of care workers, a predominantly female and minority workforce.
Simplifying Union Recognition: Making it easier for trade unions to gain statutory recognition empowers workers to collectively bargain for better terms and conditions, a fundamental right in any democratic society.
Repealing Minimum Service Levels for Industrial Action: This repeal restores the right to strike, which is essential for workers to negotiate fair wages and conditions without the fear of legal repercussions.
Paul Nowak, General Secretary of the Trades Union Congress (TUC), hailed the Employment Rights Bill as a vital step towards “repairing and rebuilding Britain after 14 years of chaos and decline.” He emphasized that boosting workers’ rights and ensuring security and respect at work are pivotal for a fair economy. This sentiment is echoed by Christina McAnea, General Secretary of Unison, who described the workplace rights package as a “game changer,” particularly praising the focus on social care.
Public Ownership and Infrastructure Reforms
In addition to the Employment Rights Bill, Labour’s agenda includes significant measures aimed at reversing the privatization of essential services. Key among these is the renationalization of railways and the establishment of Great British Energy, a publicly owned clean energy production company.
Mick Whelan, General Secretary of Aslef, the train drivers’ union, praised the decision to renationalize the railways as “the right decision, at the right time,” emphasizing its potential to stimulate economic growth and rebuild Britain’s infrastructure. Similarly, the creation of Great British Energy is seen as a pivotal move towards a sustainable future, capable of driving the green transition while creating jobs and boosting the economy.
The Better Buses Bill, which grants communities the power to take back control of bus services, also received strong support. Public ownership of bus services, as demonstrated by successful municipally owned companies like Reading Buses, can significantly improve local transport and contribute to economic vitality.
Missed Opportunities and Future Campaigns
Despite the many positive proposals, there are areas where Labour’s agenda falls short. The absence of plans to bring water companies into public ownership, reinstate the NHS as a fully public service, and buy back British Gas are notable omissions that have disappointed some advocates. These missed opportunities highlight the need for continued campaigning to push Labour towards a more comprehensive public ownership model.
Sharon Graham, General Secretary of Unite, warned against the constraints of a “financial straitjacket,” arguing that substantial investment is necessary to tackle the current crises in public services and infrastructure. She stressed that reliance on growth alone might not be sufficient to deliver the urgent changes needed.
Our GenSec’s View
Patrick Harrington, General Secretary of Solidarity union commented: “Labour’s legislative agenda, as outlined in the King’s Speech, marks a significant shift towards enhancing workers’ rights and reversing decades of privatization. While the proposals have been broadly welcomed by unions and pro-worker advocates, the journey towards a truly fair and equitable society requires ongoing vigilance and activism. As the details of the draft legislation emerge, I t will be crucial for unions and workers to continue to advocate for comprehensive reforms that ensure dignity, fairness, and security for all workers.”
Welcome to Union News, your guide to what’s happening in the UK labour and trade union movement. Reports are by Pat Harrington and music is from Tim Bragg. In this edition: Amazon Workers in Historic Union Vote at Coventry Depot, Brighton Academy Trust Schools Strike Over Funding Cuts, Lambeth School Workers Strike Against Closures, Leeds Teachers Strike Over Contract Terms, Health Workers Continue Strikes for Regrading, UCU Union’s Staff Escalate Strikes, Barnet Social Workers Stand Firm Against Strikebreakers, Tractor Workers Narrowly End Strike After Close Vote, Calls to Repeal Tory Anti-Protest Laws, Investigation into Death at Cardiff Recycling Centre, and finally, Department for Education Strike Averted After Pay Deal.
Amazon Workers in Historic Union Vote at Coventry Depot
Amazon workers at the Coventry depot began a historic vote for union recognition this week. With 3,000 employees participating, the results are expected early next week. If successful, this will mark the first time Amazon recognizes a union in Europe, compelling the company to negotiate terms, pay, and conditions for workers at the Coventry site.
GMB union representatives at Coventry have reported low pay and poor working conditions as significant issues. Adam, a GMB rep, expressed optimism about achieving union recognition despite Amazon’s efforts to limit union organizing. Andy, another rep, highlighted Amazon’s use of fear and intimidation tactics, including confiscating union literature and urging employees to vote against recognition.
This vote is seen as a potential turning point for Amazon workers across Europe. If successful, Coventry could inspire similar efforts at other Amazon warehouses, such as the Doncaster depot. GMB organized protests across Britain, including outside Amazon’s London headquarters, where a petition demanding union recognition was presented with over 30,000 signatures.
Brighton Academy Trust Schools Strike Over Funding Cuts
NEU Union members at five schools within the University of Brighton Academy Trust (Ubat) are striking this week. The workers demand that Ubat allocate more funds to schools rather than central services to save jobs and reduce workloads. This is the first academy-wide dispute in the country, highlighting the lack of financial transparency in the academy system.
The dispute began in April when Hastings Academy announced job cuts. The NEU quickly organized meetings and a formal strike ballot across five affected schools: The Hastings Academy, The St Leonards Academy, The Baird Primary Academy, Burgess Hill Academy, and Robsack Wood Primary Academy. With a 74% turnout, 93% of members voted in favour of strikes, leading to this week’s action.
NEU membership has surged by around 50% across these schools, predominantly among support staff. This strike emphasizes the growing dissatisfaction with the current funding allocation and the need for greater financial accountability within the academy system. Two additional schools are balloting to join the action in September if the issue remains unresolved.
Lambeth School Workers Strike Against Closures
School workers at three schools in Lambeth, South London, will strike next Thursday against the council’s plans to merge six schools and close two more due to falling student numbers. At St John’s Angell Town Primary School, workers voted 100% in favour of striking on a 91% turnout. Holy Trinity Primary and St Saviour’s Primary also showed strong support for the strike.
A teacher in Lambeth attributed the falling school numbers to the high cost of living in London and social cleansing. Instead of closures, the teacher suggested that schools could reduce class sizes to improve education quality. The closures are seen as unnecessary and a political choice, with the council urged to avoid job losses and maintain the schools.
This strike is part of a broader movement against school closures and funding cuts across London. Teachers and support staff are determined to protect their jobs and ensure better educational outcomes for students. The Lambeth strike is a significant step in this ongoing struggle, highlighting the community’s resistance to the council’s plans.
Leeds Teachers Strike Over Contract Terms
Teachers at Oulton Academy in Leeds are striking on Tuesday and Wednesday this week. The Leeds NEU union organized the strike after a meeting with Adrian Kneeshaw, CEO of Carlton Academy Trust, which manages the school. The CEO’s refusal to incorporate national terms into new contracts for academy staff prompted the action.
This strike is part of a broader wave of industrial actions in schools across the UK. At Benson Community School in Birmingham, workers are striking over management practices, with NEU members citing bullying by management. St Anne’s School and Sixth Form College in Hessle, near Hull, also saw strikes this week over a new pay system that fails to cover extra duties and responsibilities.
These strikes reflect growing dissatisfaction among teachers and support staff with management practices and contract terms in academies. The NEU continues to advocate for better working conditions and fair treatment for its members, aiming to secure improved terms across the education sector.
Health Workers Continue Strikes for Regrading
Low-paid health workers in England remain determined to strike despite pressure from the new Labour government to end their industrial action. Thousands of healthcare assistants and nursing assistants are demanding re-grading from NHS band 2 to band 3, reflecting the clinical work they perform alongside patient care.
Unison union members have already achieved several key victories, with most trusts accepting the principle of re-banding. However, disputes continue over the extent of backpay workers will receive. The best outcomes so far include back payments for up to five years, amounting to significant payouts for long-serving staff.
Strikes last week saw hundreds of healthcare assistants at five hospitals across Leicester and Northamptonshire take action after rejecting a management offer. More than 300 workers at East Suffolk and North Essex NHS also voted to strike, potentially joined by thousands of cleaners, porters, and housekeepers facing privatization threats. The fight for fair re-grading and working conditions in the NHS continues to gain momentum.
UCU Union’s Staff Escalate Strikes
Nearly 200 workers employed by the UCU union are escalating their strikes over management’s working practices. Represented by the Unite union, these workers voted overwhelmingly to strike, citing a complete breakdown in industrial relations and unreasonable negotiation approaches by their employer. Strikes took place on Monday and Wednesday last week, with more planned for this week.
Unite regional officer Rose Keeping condemned UCU’s undermining of industrial recognition agreements, failure to agree on key working principles, and heavy-handed disciplinary procedures. These actions have left Unite members with no choice but to strike, emphasizing the need for fair treatment and proper negotiation practices within the union itself.
Unite’s support for its members at UCU highlights the broader issue of management practices within unions. The strikes aim to secure better working conditions and respect for existing agreements, setting a precedent for other unions facing similar internal disputes.
Barnet Social Workers Stand Firm Against Strikebreakers
Barnet adult mental health social workers are on day 77 of their strike, with their final days of action planned until Friday this week. The strikers, part of the Unison union, demand higher recruitment and retention payments from the north London Labour council, which has so far refused to acknowledge a retention issue in the service.
The council has employed a recruitment agency to cover the work of striking social workers, a move Unison deems strikebreaking. This tactic, akin to anti-union measures, threatens the broader trade union movement by encouraging other employers to break strikes in similar ways.
Despite these challenges, Barnet social workers remain resolute. Their prolonged strike action underscores the importance of fair pay and working conditions in maintaining a stable workforce. The outcome of this dispute could have significant implications for social workers and other public sector employees facing similar issues.
Tractor Workers Narrowly End Strike After Close Vote
Workers at CNH Industrial’s Basildon tractor factory in Essex have narrowly voted to end their strike action. Despite this decision, 46% of Unite union members voted against the management offer, highlighting ongoing dissatisfaction. The offer included a 5% pay rise, which fell short of the previously agreed rate based on yearly average CPI inflation.
Unite had initially cancelled scheduled strikes while members voted on the offer. The close result indicates a strong desire among workers to continue fighting for fair pay. Issues such as the withdrawal of line allowances and a 30-year wait for a review of pay grades remain unresolved.
This narrow vote reflects the complex dynamics within the workplace, with many workers feeling compelled to accept the offer due to short-term financial pressures. However, the strong opposition suggests that future industrial action is possible if conditions do not improve.
Calls to Repeal Tory Anti-Protest Laws
Peace, pro-Palestine, environmental, and civil liberties groups have called on the new Labour government to repeal Tory anti-protest laws. Amnesty International published a report highlighting the wide-ranging measures used to suppress peaceful demonstrations and free speech across Europe. The report urges Home Secretary Yvette Cooper to repeal the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Act, the Public Order Act, and the Serious Disruption Regulations.
Kerry Moscogiuri of Amnesty International UK emphasized the importance of protest in addressing issues like inequality, discrimination, and climate change. The anti-protest laws have been used to stifle dissent, with environmental activists labelled as threats and pro-Palestine protests denounced by former Home Secretary Suella Braverman.
Activist groups, including Just Stop Oil and the Palestine Solidarity Campaign, argue that protest is a fundamental democratic right. They call on the Labour government to protect these freedoms and ensure that the right to protest is upheld. The new government faces pressure to reverse the authoritarian measures implemented by the previous administration.
Investigation into Death at Cardiff Recycling Centre
An investigation has been launched into the death of a worker at the Atlantic Recycling site in Cardiff. South Wales Police are working with the Health & Safety Executive to determine the cause of the tragic incident that occurred on Monday. The man, a contractor carrying out maintenance, died from his injuries after emergency services were called to the site.
The Dauson Environmental Group, which owns the site, has a controversial history, including convictions for environmental offenses and allegations of mislabelling waste to avoid landfill taxes. This incident has raised concerns about the company’s safety practices and regulatory compliance.
The investigation aims to uncover the circumstances surrounding the worker’s death and ensure accountability. The tragic event highlights the need for stringent safety measures and oversight in the waste management industry to prevent future incidents.
and finally, Department for Education Strike Averted After Pay Deal
Facilities staff at the Department for Education (DfE) have secured back pay amounting to £2,500 each, averting a planned strike. The United Voices of the World (UVW) announced that cleaners, caterers, receptionists, and post room staff won the boost after negotiations with their contractor ISS. The agreement includes back pay to November 2023 and commitments to discuss improvements in sick pay.
Britain has witnessed a significant surge in insecure, low-paid work over the past 14 years, according to a recent report by the TUC. This surge underscores the urgent need for stronger workers’ rights and better pay to ensure fair and secure employment for all.
The TUC’s comprehensive study reveals that the number of people in insecure work has soared to an unprecedented 4.1 million. Analyzing official statistics, the report highlights that nearly one million additional people have entered “precarious” employment between 2011 and 2023. This includes roles involving zero-hours contracts, low-paid self-employment, and casual or seasonal work.
Alarmingly, the rise in insecure work has been nearly three times faster than the growth of secure employment. According to the TUC, one in eight workers in the UK is now engaged in precarious employment, with the increase driven predominantly by lower-paid sectors.
TUC General Secretary Paul Nowak emphasizes the detrimental impact of this trend: “We need a government that will make work pay, but over the last 14 years we have seen an explosion in insecure, low-paid work. The UK’s long experiment with a low-rights, low-wage economy has been terrible for growth, productivity, and living standards. Real wages are still worth less than in 2008 and across the country, people are trapped in jobs that offer little or no security.“
Echoing this sentiment, Pat Harrington, General Secretary of Solidarity, asserts, “The rise in insecure work is a direct attack on the dignity of workers. It’s time to put an end to this exploitation and demand better protections and pay for all. Workers deserve stability and respect, not the constant uncertainty of precarious employment.”
Welcome to Union News, your guide to what’s happening in the UK labour and trade union movement. Reports are by Pat Harrington and music is from Tim Bragg. This week: “Don’t Fall for Lies”: Unison President Libby Nolan’s Rallying Call at Brighton Conference, New Evidence Reveals Thatcher’s Role in 1984 Miners’ Strike Cover-Up. And Bakers Food and Allied Workers Union Unveils “Bakers Dozen” Manifesto Ahead of UK Elections.
“Don’t Fall for Lies”: Unison President Libby Nolan’s Rallying Call at Brighton Conference
Outgoing Unison president Libby Nolan delivered a powerful speech at the Brighton Conference Centre recently, urging attendees to remain vigilant against misinformation. In a packed hall, Nolan underscored the significance of historical industrial and community struggles championed by trade unionists and highlighted the upcoming July 4 general election as a pivotal moment for change.
Nolan emphasized the necessity of ousting the Tories, while also stressing the importance of holding a prospective Labour government accountable. “The Labour Party must not only stop NHS cuts and privatization—they must reverse the cuts,” she declared, advocating for a robust defence and expansion of public services.
Addressing the issue of public funding, Nolan refuted claims of financial scarcity, stating, “We should not fall for lies that there is no money to spend on public services. It’s about what they choose to spend the money on.”
Reflecting on her tenure, Nolan expressed pride in representing Unison during numerous peaceful and substantial demonstrations. She reaffirmed the union’s stance on international issues, particularly the conflict in Palestine, saying, “Being pro-Palestinian is not being anti-Semitic. We took the decision not to invite MPs to this conference who did not support a ceasefire. We will not stop speaking up for and marching for Palestine and demanding a ceasefire.”
Nolan’s impassioned address serves as a clarion call for union members to demand accountability, prioritize public services, and continue advocating for justice both domestically and internationally.
New Evidence Reveals Thatcher’s Role in 1984 Miners’ Strike Cover-Up
On the 40th anniversary of the Orgreave clashes, new evidence has emerged, revealing deep-seated lies and collusion within the Thatcher government during the 1984-85 miners’ strike. The Orgreave Truth and Justice Campaign (OTJC) has released a damning report demanding an independent public inquiry.
The report, submitted to the Home Office and major political party headquarters, uncovers public and private actions by police and government officials during the strike. It confirms that then-Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher and her government influenced the miners’ strike and its policing, despite publicly denying involvement.
The OTJC argues that successive Conservative governments and senior police officials have concealed the truth about Orgreave. Kate Flannery, OTJC secretary, emphasized the need for an inquiry, citing Thatcher’s direct involvement. She highlighted the existence of withheld government files, some locked away until 2066, that could shed light on the events.
Kevin Horne, a miner arrested at Orgreave, accused the police of lying in their statements and court testimonies. “We want answers about the police’s lying and violent behaviour, how officers were briefed, and why they weren’t held accountable,” Horne stated.
The OTJC recently secured a Labour Party commitment to investigate Orgreave. Unite general secretary Sharon Graham marked the anniversary as a reminder of state power abuses against workers. She reiterated calls for an independent inquiry into Orgreave and warned against current anti-union and protest laws, urging any incoming government to repeal such legislation.
The anniversary and the OTJC report spotlight the urgent need for transparency and accountability regarding the 1984 Orgreave incident and its long-standing repercussions.
And finally, Bakers Food and Allied Workers Union Unveils “Bakers Dozen” Manifesto Ahead of UK Elections
The Bakers Food and Allied Workers Union (BFAWU) has introduced a bold new manifesto, dubbed the “Bakers Dozen,” urging the next UK Government to adopt 13 key policy changes. The initiative, directed particularly at the Labour Party, outlines transformative demands aimed at improving the lives of BFAWU members and the broader working-class community.
The Bakers Dozen Manifesto is rooted in both union policy and insights from a comprehensive member survey. Among its visionary proposals are immediate full employment rights, a £15 per hour living wage, the establishment of a national care service, the renationalization of utilities, and the abolition of university tuition fees.
The survey results indicate a decline in support for the Labour Party among BFAWU members, highlighting the necessity for the party to earnestly address working-class concerns rather than take their backing for granted.
Sarah Woolley, General Secretary of the BFAWU, emphasized: “Our members are deeply politically engaged, and their concerns mirror those of the wider population. The cost of living crisis, affecting basic needs like food, energy, and housing, is the foremost issue. Other significant concerns include access to NHS services, affordable housing, and low pay.
Our members have clearly outlined what is needed to tackle these issues in their communities and workplaces. The Bakers Dozen Manifesto presents sensible, fair, and hopeful solutions that, if implemented, would benefit our members and workers across the UK. We strongly urge the Labour Party to consider and adopt these proposals.”
Ian Hodson, President of the BFAWU, added: “The Bakers Dozen manifesto encapsulates the policies our members require to live and work with dignity, ensuring they receive fair pay and treatment and access to essential public services.
Years of neglect have left working-class people far from achieving these needs. Should the incoming Labour Government fail to address this decline, it will lead to widespread disappointment and potentially exacerbate the party’s future decline. They must heed these demands and address the needs of working-class people.”
The BFAWU’s Bakers Dozen Manifesto serves as a clarion call for the next UK Government, especially the Labour Party, to prioritize the needs of working-class citizens and implement policies that guarantee fair wages, workplace rights, and essential public services.
THE BAKERS’ DOZEN OUR POLICY DEMANDS AHEAD OFTHE GENERAL ELECTION IN FULL
1 Introduce a £15 an hour national minimum wage for all workers regardless of age to end the unfair youth limit on the national minimum wage. 2 Abolish zero-hour contracts. 3 Full employment rights from day one. 4 Ensure all employers are legally required to provide six weeks of contractual sick pay at 100% of normal pay to all workers. 5 Repeal all anti-trade union legislation. 6 Legislate for a maximum temperature in the workplace. 7 End the practice of companies going into administration to avoid their financial responsibilities and obligations to their workforce and fine directors who leave workers high and dry 8 Take water, energy and Royal Mail back into public ownership, curb excessive pricing and remove the profit motive from our essential services. 9 Introduce a statutory Right to Food, free school meals and place a cap on Supermarket profits. 10 Re-nationalise our train companies, cap bus fares at £2 max for a single journey and introduce free public transport for all 16–25 year olds. 11 End arm sales to Israel 12 Abolish Tuition Fees, re-introduce the Union Learning Fund in England, whilst protecting the funds in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. 13 Create a national care service that provides dignity for the elderly and vulnerable no matter their income and wealth.
In this week’s Union News, we celebrate a significant victory for Welsh hospital doctors as the British Medical Association (BMA) secures improved pay terms following strike action. Junior doctors, specialist doctors, and consultants will receive substantial pay increases, marking a crucial step towards pay restoration. Meanwhile, the Derby Silk Mill Festival commemorates Britain’s first organized industrial workers’ struggle from 1833-34, reminding us of the enduring legacy of union solidarity and resilience.
Additionally, the Public and Commercial Services (PCS) union demands urgent government action to address the UK’s prison overcrowding crisis and prevent staff burnout, highlighting the dire need for investment in the prison service. The National Education Union (NEU) has unveiled a bold manifesto ahead of the General Election, calling for major reforms in education funding, child poverty, exam systems, and teacher recruitment to prioritize children’s well-being and support educators.
Reporting is by Pat Harrington and music is by Tim Bragg.
BMA Secures Improved Pay Offer for Welsh Hospital Doctors After Strike Action
In a significant victory for medical professionals, the British Medical Association (BMA) has successfully negotiated improved pay terms for doctors working in secondary care across Wales. Following two months of intense negotiations and 10 days of strike action, the BMA has secured pay offers that benefit junior doctors, specialist doctors (SAS), and consultants.
Key Points:
Junior Doctors: A 12.4% backdated pay rise for the 2023-24 financial year, with the increase applicable from April 2023. Consultants: A revised pay scale featuring better starting pay and an additional pay rise of up to 10.1%. SAS Doctors: New contracts with pay increases ranging from 6.1% to 9.2%, along with an additional uplift for those on closed contracts.
The BMA’s Welsh Junior Doctors Committee co-chairs, Dr. Oba Babs Osibodu and Dr. Peter Fahey, expressed satisfaction with the offer, emphasizing that it sets the stage for pay restoration. Dr. Stephen Kelly, chair of BMA Cymru Wales’ Consultants committee, welcomed the improvements, recognizing the dedication of senior doctors.
However, the Royal College of Nursing Wales criticized the government’s handling of nursing staff salaries. Executive director Helen Whyley highlighted the frustration felt by nursing staff, who continue to wait for fair pay.
Welsh First Minister Vaughan Gething and Health Secretary Eluned Morgan acknowledged the constructive nature of the talks, thanking the BMA’s negotiating teams and NHS Employers.
The BMA remains committed to advocating for fair pay across the healthcare sector, urging ministers to address nursing staff salaries promptly.
“Remember the Past, Fight for Your Future”: Derby’s Historic Silk Mill Struggle Resonates Today
The Derby Silk Mill Festival was held on June 8 2024. This lively event commemorates Britain’s first organized struggle of industrial workers, which took place during 1833-34. The festival includes a march, rally, and a People’s Festival with trade union and community campaign stalls, live bands, and activities for kids.
The annual Festival serves as a poignant reminder of the year-long battle fought by silk mill workers in the Derwent Valley during 1833-34. These workers faced oppressive owners and managers who exploited their labour through spurious pay cuts and denied them trade union rights under the threat of instant dismissal.
The Struggle:
Lockout and Resistance: The silk mill lockout was a bitter and sustained conflict. Workers rallied against unfair treatment, and their struggle is commemorated not only through the festival but also by a mural on the Silk Mill pub, adjacent to the now-transformed Mill (Derby’s Museum of Making). Union Solidarity: When Mr. Frost, a silk manufacturer, dismissed a worker for refusing a fine related to “shoddy work,” all union members walked out. The bosses responded with a lockout, attempting to break the trade union. Regional General Strike: The dispute quickly spread to other mills in the Derwent Valley, becoming a Derby-centric general strike. Workers demanded fair treatment and the fruits of their own industry. Repression and Resilience: Despite repression from ruling classes, including military, police, courts, and more, solidarity persisted. The struggle symbolized a fight for workplace strength. Legacy: Although workers returned to their jobs in 1834 due to poverty and violence, this pivotal event led to the formation of the Grand National Consolidated Trade Union, shaping today’s trade union movement.
As we remember this historic struggle, let it inspire us to continue fighting for workers’ rights and justice in our own time.
Prison Crisis: PCS Union Demands Urgent Action to Alleviate Overcrowding and Staff Burnout
The Public and Commercial Services (PCS) union has issued a stark call to the new government, urging immediate investment in the UK’s prison service. The goal? To tackle overcrowding and prevent staff burnout.
Key Points:
Staff Pressure: PCS members in Offender Management Units (OMUs) within prisons face immense pressure to take on additional work, all in an effort to free up cell space. Reports indicate that staff are at breaking point, grappling with burnout, stress, and exhaustion. Unsustainable Conditions: The union emphasizes that the strain on hardworking OMU members is unsustainable and could signal a failure in the HMPPS (Her Majesty’s Prison and Probation Service) duty of care. Prison Population Crisis: The UK currently boasts the highest prison population per capita in Western Europe, with numbers projected to reach 106,300 by March 2027. Despite this, successive governments have failed to address the issue adequately. Private Prisons and Under-Investment: While a multi-million-pound prison building program continues, profit-driven private companies manage it. Simultaneously, the existing public prison infrastructure suffers from sustained under-investment. Police Cell Rentals: Operation Safeguard involves renting police cells due to overcrowding, and reports suggest that police in England and Wales are advised to make fewer arrests due to cell shortages. PCS Stands Firm: The PCS supports senior HMPPS leaders who refuse to breach safe operational capacity levels. Overcrowded prisons pose risks to staff, prisoners, and the public. Parliamentary Action Needed: The Sentencing Bill’s delay necessitates urgent parliamentary attention to sentencing policy, non-custodial alternatives, and broader investment in public services.
PCS General Secretary’s Stance: Fran Heathcote asserts that staff burnout, unsafe conditions, and the impact on work-life balance are unacceptable risks.
As the crisis persists, the PCS remains committed to advocating for change and opposing unsustainable practices in the prison system.
and finally, NEU Unveils Bold Education Manifesto Ahead of General Election
The National Education Union (NEU) has launched a powerful manifesto for education, demanding urgent action from the next government. With ten key policy areas in focus, the NEU aims to reshape the education landscape and prioritize children’s well-being.
Key Proposals:
Reverse Funding Cuts: Schools, colleges, and nurseries must receive increased funding, reaching five percent of GDP. Tackle Child Poverty: Remove the two-child benefit cap and ensure free, nutritious school lunches for all pupils. Inclusive Curriculum: Embed anti-racism and provide broad subject access, including arts and PE. Exam Overhaul: Abandon primary school tests and transform 14-19 assessments to combat the exam factory culture. Special Needs Support: Swift, bureaucracy-free assistance for students with special needs. Teacher Recruitment: Competitive pay to fill soaring vacancies. Ofsted Replacement: Replace Ofsted with a collaborative, supportive system focused on advice and feedback. Workload Management: Keep educators in the profession by addressing unmanageable workloads. Professional Development Time: Allocate non-teaching time for collaboration and planning, especially for early career teachers. Social Media Regulation: Tighter controls to protect children online.
The NEU’s manifesto sets the stage for a critical General Election. The education system faces urgent challenges, from underfunding to child poverty. Teachers and parents understand the impact on learning, and the NEU refuses to accept anything less than serious commitments from major parties. Let education take centre stage!
591 words, 3 minutes read time. This article first appeared in British Worker, the internal newsletter of Solidarity union.
At the recent union conference in Eastbourne, POA general secretary Steve Gillan delivered a stern message to the Labour Party: There can be no “back-pedalling” on the New Deal for Workers. His warning carries weight, and here’s why:
A Painful History of Broken Promises:
Gillan’s reference to former Labour prime minister Tony Blair’s broken pledge to repeal anti-strike legislation serves as a stark reminder. Unions do not forget easily when promises are left unfulfilled. Workers have endured years of policy shifts, reversals, and disappointments. The New Deal represents hope for positive change, and any deviation from its principles risks repeating past mistakes.
The New Deal for Workers: A Comprehensive Plan
The New Deal for Workers is a comprehensive plan launched by the Labour Party in partnership with affiliated trade unions. Its primary goal is to improve the lives of working people by strengthening individual and collective rights, raising wages, and enhancing working conditions. Here are the key aspects of this transformative initiative:
Strengthening Rights at Work:
From day one on the job, all workers will be entitled to basic rights and protections, including sick pay, holiday pay, parental leave, flexible working arrangements, and protection against unfair dismissal. The qualifying period for these basic rights will be removed, ensuring that everyone is protected from their very first day of employment. Workplace rights and protections will also be strengthened for self-employed individuals, addressing the complexities of legal definitions and rights allocation.
Addressing Insecurity and Low Pay:
The pandemic has highlighted the imbalance of power in the workplace, with wages stagnating for over a decade and work becoming increasingly insecure. In-work poverty and financial insecurity have become rampant, affecting one in six working households. Labour’s New Deal aims to make work more secure, better-paid, and fairer for all, ensuring that workers receive the rights and protections they deserve.
Ending Exploitative Practices:
The New Deal seeks to ban exploitative practices such as zero-hour contracts and “fire and rehire” tactics.
By delivering a genuine living wage and promoting family-friendly work environments, Labour aims to put more money in working people’s pockets, boost economic growth, and enhance conditions for innovation.
Why Is the New Deal Important to Workers?
Security and Dignity:
Strengthening workers’ rights ensures greater job security and stability. When workers have access to basic rights and protections, they can face the future with confidence. The New Deal aims to protect workers from unfair treatment, arbitrary dismissals, and precarious employment situations.
Fair Compensation:
By raising wages and promoting a genuine living wage, the New Deal directly impacts workers’ financial well-being.Fair compensation allows workers to meet their basic needs, support their families, and participate fully in society.
Collective Bargaining Power:
Strengthening unions and collective rights empowers workers to negotiate better terms and conditions with employers. Unions play a crucial role in advocating for workers’ interests, ensuring fair wages, safe working conditions, and a voice in decision-making.
Economic Resilience:
When workers are treated fairly and compensated adequately, they contribute to a more stable and resilient economy. A thriving workforce drives productivity, innovation, and sustainable growth.
The New Deal isn’t just about rhetoric — it’s about meaningful changes that impact people’s lives. Actions speak louder than words, and the Labour Party must deliver on its commitments. Gillan’s call to remember the past and shape the future is a rallying cry. Failed policies have consequences, affecting workers’ livelihoods, families, and communities. The New Deal represents an opportunity to break the cycle of disappointment. It’s a chance to build a fairer, more equitable society—one where workers’ rights are respected and upheld.
Welcome to Union News, your guide to what’s happening in the UK trade union and labour movement. Reporting is by Pat Harrington and music is by Tim Bragg. In this week’s episode: Byron Court Primary School Faces Privatisation Battle Amid Harris Federation Controversy, Retail Sales Take a Drenching: Heavy Rain and Cost Pressures Hit Shoppers, Scotland Council Workers Reject “Derisory” Pay Offer, Threaten Summer Strikes, Fire Brigades Union Vows to Hold Labour Accountable on Anti-Strike Law Repeal, Education Unions Demand Immediate Publication of STRB Report and Pay Offer, and finally Workers Party and Independent Left Candidates: A Powerful Alternative in the 2024 General Election.
Byron Court Primary School in North London is at the centre of a heated battle over privatisation plans. The community school, located in Brent, north London, is set to join the notorious Harris Federation academy chain, a move that has sparked outrage among teachers, parents, and local residents.
The controversy began after Ofsted inspectors downgraded Byron Court from an “outstanding” rating to “inadequate” last November. The inspection report highlighted issues of bullying, racist language, and sexual harassment within the school. Parents lost confidence in the institution, and head teacher Martyn Boxall resigned in response to the damning findings.
Acting head Richard Sternberg, who was leading the school during the inspection, assured parents that efforts were underway to address the school’s challenges. However, the Department for Education (DfE) issued an academy order, mandating that Byron Court become part of the Harris Federation—a multi-academy trust known for its involvement in improving educational standards across London and Essex.
The Harris Federation operates 54 primary and secondary schools, directly funded by the DfE and independent of local authority control. Despite the controversy, the federation aims to transform Byron Court through its expertise and resources.
Teachers at Byron Court have taken a stand against the privatisation move. Members of the National Education Union (NEU) went on strike, with further strikes planned for June 4 to 6. NEU national executive member Jenny Cooper emphasized that the union would not accept the politicized privatisation of schools.
A veteran teacher in Brent expressed concerns about the Ofsted inspection process. According to her, the inspectors were rude, altered the inspection timetable, and denied staff necessary support. The inspection outcome, she argued, unfairly smeared the school staff and served as a tool for academisation.
The attempted academisation, however, has faced resistance. The strikes by Byron Court staff have disrupted the Harris Federation’s plans. The teacher hopes that the collective effort will deter the federation from proceeding.
A joint statement from Brent NEU and the Save Byron Court Parent Campaign revealed that nearly two-thirds of parents want the school to remain a community institution. Staff members share this sentiment, yet they find themselves excluded from discussions about the school’s future. The question remains: How can decisions affecting the staff, families, and local community be made without their input
Retail Sales Take a Drenching: Heavy Rain and Cost Pressures Hit Shoppers
Retail sales in the UK took a nosedive last month, leaving shop owners and economists concerned. The culprit? A combination of relentless rain and mounting cost-of-living pressures.
Across all sectors, sales plummeted by 2.3 per cent. But certain categories felt the brunt of the storm: clothing, sports equipment, furniture, and games and toys. These segments were particularly affected by the inclement weather during April.
Clothing and household stores bore the brunt of the decline, experiencing a sharp 4.1 per cent drop—the most significant fall since January 2021. Meanwhile, fashion and footwear retailers alone saw sales dip by 5.1 per cent month on month.
TUC General Secretary Paul Nowak emphasized the importance of local spending to stimulate growth and support businesses. He stated, “A sustainable recovery hinges on people’s ability to spend in their local economies.”
However, the retail slump underscores ongoing challenges for families grappling with the cost-of-living crisis. Millions are tightening their belts, and household budgets remain under immense strain.
Despite claims of success from the Conservative government, real wages still lag behind pre-2008 levels. The British public remains skeptical, well aware that bills continue to rise.
An Office for National Statistics survey revealed that 55 per cent of adults reported increased living costs over the past month. Food prices topped the list (cited by 94 per cent), followed by fuel (61 per cent), and energy bills (53 per cent).
Scotland Council Workers Reject “Derisory” Pay Offer, Threaten Summer Strikes
Council workers in Scotland are gearing up for a potential summer strike after unanimously rejecting what they deem a “derisory” pay offer. Unite, the union representing these workers, dismissed the proposal put forth by local government body Cosla.
The contentious 18-month deal would have provided council staff with a 2.2% increase from April this year, followed by an additional 2% hike in October. However, Unite’s general secretary, Sharon Graham, emphasized that their members deserve better and should not settle for less.
Graham McNab, Unite’s industrial officer, echoed this sentiment, stating that the pay offer falls far short of meeting the aspirations of local government workers. Unite also opposes the shift of the pay anniversary date to October, viewing it as a mere delay tactic.
Cosla, on the other hand, maintains that their offer is “strong, fair, and credible.” They argue that severe financial constraints faced by councils necessitate a cautious approach to affordability in the context of a flat-cash local government settlement.
As tensions rise, Unison—the largest local government union in Scotland—has also recommended that staff vote against the pay deal. Meanwhile, GMB Scotland’s local government committee rejected the offer, and their members have already backed strike action in a consultative ballot. A formal ballot for care workers is currently underway
Fire Brigades Union Vows to Hold Labour Accountable on Anti-Strike Law Repeal
The Fire Brigades Union (FBU) is turning up the heat on Labour, demanding the scrapping of the Tories’ controversial minimum service levels legislation. FBU President Ian Murray made this commitment during his opening address at the union’s annual conference in Blackpool.
Murray, a veteran of such gatherings for over two decades, expressed frustration with the state of fire and rescue services. He cited resolutions and policy statements that consistently highlighted the sector’s decline, fragmentation, and inadequate infrastructure investment.
“We’re fighting year after year for the meagre remains on the Treasury table,” Murray declared. “It’s not even enough to maintain the status quo. We need change, and hopefully, a general election will deliver it.”
The FBU’s focus centres on Labour’s promise to repeal the Strikes (Minimum Service Levels) Act within 100 days if the party secures victory in the upcoming general election. This legislation currently mandates fire and rescue services to operate at 73% capacity during strikes, while control rooms continue normal operations despite industrial action.
Education Unions Demand Immediate Publication of STRB Report and Pay Offer
The National Education Union (NEU), NASUWT, NAHT, and ASCL school leaders’ union have joined forces to call for urgent action from Education Secretary Gillian Keegan. In a joint letter, they demand the immediate release of the School Teachers’ Review Body’s (STRB) recommendations and the government’s response.
Their key demand? A “fully-funded, above-inflation pay increase for all teachers and school leaders in September 2024.” Anything less, they argue, would be a dereliction of the government’s duty to safeguard the education service. The unions warn that any continued failure to invest adequately will exact a heavy political toll at the upcoming general election.
The STRB, an independent advisory body, provides recommendations on teachers’ and school leaders’ pay and conditions in England. Last week, the latest STRB Report landed on Keegan’s desk. The unions insist that its findings must be made public without delay.
In a pointed reference to Keegan’s previous commitment to align the STRB process with the school budget cycle, the unions emphasize the urgency of publishing the report. They highlight the critical recruitment and retention challenges faced by the education sector. Delaying the report’s release could exacerbate these problems, leading to more teachers and school leaders considering leaving the profession.
Research from the NFER and the House of Commons Education Committee underscores the severity of the recruitment and retention crisis. Teaching’s competitive position has suffered due to pay cuts worse than those in other professions. Skyrocketing workloads compound the challenges. Evidence supports the case for higher teacher pay increases relative to the wider economy to address teacher supply issues.
Moreover, schools have grappled with resource constraints since 2010, with 70% experiencing real-terms funding reductions due to government cuts. The Institute for Fiscal Studies estimates that an additional £3.2 billion is needed to restore school spending power to pre-2010 levels.
The unions urge the government to prioritize education investment. Their first demand: a fully funded, above-inflation pay rise for educators in September 2024. Failure to meet this crucial step would jeopardize the education service’s future.
Parents, teachers, and school leaders await Keegan’s response. The stakes are high—the government’s actions will resonate at the General Election.
and finally, Workers Party and Independent Left Candidates: A Powerful Alternative in the 2024 General Election
As the 2024 general election approaches, voters across the United Kingdom are faced with critical decisions. Amidst the familiar political landscape dominated by the old gang parties, a new force is emerging: the Workers Party of Britain. Led by the charismatic George Galloway, this party aims to challenge the status quo and provide a fresh alternative for disillusioned voters.
Why Consider the Workers Party?
The Workers Party’s rallying cry is stalwart support for the Palestinian people and opposition to British complicity in the Gaza genocide1. While this issue remains central, the party also addresses a wide range of concerns, from healthcare (NHS) to the economy, crime, and immigration. The economic policies of the Party are pro-union and pro-worker.
The Workers Party plans to contest almost every English seat in the upcoming election, making it the largest left-of-Labour electoral challenge in history. Their goal is to have the same impact on Labour as Nigel Farage’s Reform Party had on the Tories. With over 500 candidates already in place, they’re poised to shake up the political landscape.
Independent Left Candidates: The Workers Party supports a select group of independent left-leaning candidates. Among them are Jeremy Corbyn, the former Labour leader, who will stand as an independent in Islington North, and Andrew Feinstein, chosen by the Organise Corbyn-Inspired Socialist Alliance (OCISA) to unseat Keir Starmer in Holborn and St Pancras. These candidates offer an alternative to the mainstream parties.
As the election draws near, voters must seriously consider their options. The Workers Party, with its principled stance, and independent candidates, offer a compelling alternative. Whether you’re disillusioned with the major parties or seeking a new vision for Britain, the Workers Party and Independent left candidates deserve your attention. Remember, the ballot box is one way to achieve change, and this election presents an opportunity to shape the future of our nation.
Welcome to Union News for the 21st of May 2024. In this week’s edition: Labour Leader Faces Union Backlash Over Workers’ Rights Revisions, Historic Win for Workers: Lord Woodley’s Anti-Fire and Rehire Bill Passes Unopposed, Scottish Lecturers Strike for Fair Pay Amidst Cost-of-Living Crisis, and finally, Apprenticeship Levy Backfires, Undermining Training Schemes, Report Warns Government’s Apprenticeship Levy Faces Criticism for Harming Training Programs. Reporting is by Pat Harrington and music is by Tim Bragg.
Labour Leader Faces Union Backlash Over Workers’ Rights Revisions Starmer Scrambles to Mend Ties with Unions Amid Workers’ Rights Tensions
Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer is working to reassure trade union leaders about his party’s commitment to workers’ rights following accusations of diluting key policies.
Labour’s ambitious plan, heralded as the most significant workers’ rights overhaul in decades, promises to ban zero hours contracts, ensure employment rights from day one, and end “fire and rehire” practices. Initially introduced by Deputy Leader Angela Rayner in 2021, the plan has faced scrutiny and revisions, raising concerns among union leaders.
Union leaders were alarmed by a new document, circulated last week, which they viewed as a retreat from the original commitments. Unite’s General Secretary, Sharon Graham, branded the document a “betrayal” and “unrecognizable” from the initial plan.
In a bid to address these concerns, Starmer, along with Rayner and Shadow Chancellor Rachel Reeves, met with trade union officials. Following intense discussions, the controversial draft was scrapped.
In a joint statement, Labour and union leaders reaffirmed their commitment to the “new deal for working people,” as agreed last July. They pledged to work swiftly on legislative plans to bring these commitments into action should Labour win the next election.
Despite the recent agreement, tensions remain high. Union sources suggest that Labour’s leadership might be succumbing to pressure from business interests as the election approaches.
After the meeting, Graham expressed cautious optimism, stating that Labour had recommitted to the New Deal for Working People. She emphasized the importance of workers’ voices in the ongoing discussions, noting another meeting is scheduled in three weeks to finalize details.
Labour’s plans originally included introducing an “employment rights bill” within 100 days of taking office, though this timeline is now considered ambitious. Changes to the policy last summer at the national policy forum had already sparked union discontent, seen as attempts to appease business interests.
Recent reports suggested the new draft was more lenient towards business needs, especially regarding fire and rehire practices and zero hours contracts. The Financial Times indicated the draft included language allowing businesses to restructure for viability and offered limited bans on zero hours contracts.
Labour has also faced criticism for scaling back its 2021 green energy investment plans from £28bn, highlighting ongoing internal party struggles to balance progressive policies with electoral pragmatism.
Union leaders remain vigilant, determined to ensure Labour’s more radical policies do not face further dilution. As the election campaign heats up, Starmer and his team must navigate these tensions to maintain crucial union support.
Historic Win for Workers: Lord Woodley’s Anti-Fire and Rehire Bill Passes Unopposed House of Lords Backs Landmark Legislation to Protect Workers’ Rights
In a significant victory for workers’ rights, Lord Tony Woodley’s Employment and Trade Union Rights (Dismissal and Re-engagement) Bill passed unopposed at its third reading in the House of Lords on Friday. This pivotal legislation aims to protect employees from dismissal and re-engagement under inferior terms, mandating employers to conduct thorough consultations and disclose relevant information regarding any contract changes.
Lord Woodley, former general secretary of the Transport and General Workers Union (T&G) and joint general secretary of Unite, passionately addressed the Lords, condemning the exploitative practice of “fire and rehire.”
“Fire and rehire is a despicable tactic used by unscrupulous employers to rip off workers, cut costs, and boost profits,” Woodley stated. “I am thrilled to see this Bill progress in the House and grateful for the cross-party support it has received. This legislation marks a significant step towards eradicating this abusive practice.”
Woodley expressed gratitude to various individuals and organizations for their contributions to the Bill’s success. He acknowledged Unite for exposing the misuse of fire and rehire during the Covid-19 pandemic and Barry Gardiner, who championed a similar Private Member’s Bill in the Commons.
The Bill, crafted with the expertise of Lord Hendy and Professor Keith Ewing from the Institute of Employment Rights, also received robust backing from over 20 trade unions across the UK. Woodley emphasized the Labour Party’s commitment to combating exploitative employment practices as a key promise for the next election.
As the Bill moves to the Commons, it is expected to be championed by Labour MP Barry Gardiner, who anticipates strong opposition from the government. Gardiner, celebrating the Bill’s progress, shared on social media, “Great job Tony for taking the Stop Fire & Rehire Bill to the next stage. It’ll be an honour to pick up from where we left off in the Commons almost two years ago. The tragedy is that in the months in between, the government has done nothing. The next Labour government must and will.”
This legislative milestone brings the UK closer to eliminating the exploitative fire and rehire practice, ensuring fair treatment for workers and holding employers accountable.
Scottish Lecturers Strike for Fair Pay Amidst Cost-of-Living Crisis
Lecturers from colleges across Scotland have commenced a series of strikes today, expressing profound dissatisfaction over unresolved wage disputes. The Educational Institute of Scotland Further Education Lecturer Association (EIS-FELA) initiated the first of nine planned strike days spanning May and June, following unfruitful negotiations that have been ongoing since 2022.
In an effort to break the impasse, EIS-FELA presented a revised four-year pay proposal last Thursday. However, the response from employers fell short of the union’s expectations, leaving no choice but to proceed with the strike action this week.
A spokesperson for EIS expressed their disappointment, stating, “Despite presenting a revised pay claim to College Employers Scotland (CES), we received no guarantees on key aspects of the pay increase or other elements of the claim.”
The lecturing staff’s commitment to their students remains unwavering, as they yearn to return to their teaching duties and assist students in achieving their academic goals. Nevertheless, they stand united in their quest for a fair pay rise, which they believe is essential to mitigate the financial strain and stress inflicted by the current cost-of-living crisis.
Gavin Donoghue, the director of CES, has declared the offer of a £5,000 consolidated pay increase over three academic years, starting from September 2022, as the “full and final” proposal. He urges EIS-FELA to halt the escalation of strike actions and to conduct a formal ballot among their members regarding the offer.
and finally, Apprenticeship Levy Backfires, Undermining Training Schemes, Report Warns Government’s Apprenticeship Levy Faces Criticism for Harming Training Programs
The government’s Apprenticeship Levy, introduced to boost trainee employment, is backfiring and undermining apprentice training schemes, a new report from the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) and the Youth Futures Foundation warned today.
The report highlights that the scheme incentivizes employers to “rebadge” existing staff training as apprenticeships to claim funding, rather than genuinely investing in new trainees. A survey of over 2,000 organizations revealed these “worrying unintended consequences,” with many employers repurposing existing training programs to draw from the levy fund.
Introduced in 2017, the Apprenticeship Levy requires employers with a pay bill of £3 million or more to pay a 0.5% tax. This money goes into a fund that employers can use to finance apprenticeship programs. However, the report indicates this system is eroding traditional apprenticeship pathways.
Peter Cheese, chief executive of CIPD, emphasized the detrimental impact on young people: “The evidence in this report shows clearly that young people most need and benefit from apprenticeships, and that the erosion of this pathway has had a negative impact on social mobility for the most disadvantaged.”
Cheese called for “an apprenticeship guarantee” to reclaim apprenticeships for young people and reverse the decline in opportunities for them.
Barry Fletcher, chief executive of the Youth Futures Foundation, added, “International evidence shows apprenticeships are an important and impactful way to support young people in preparing for and accessing jobs. Yet, apprenticeship participation has fallen significantly for young people, especially those most marginalized in recent years.”
The Trade Union Congress (TUC) also called for reforms to the scheme. TUC general secretary Paul Nowak stated, “Funds raised by the apprenticeship levy are being underspent or misused. Every worker should have the chance to raise their skills, progress their career, and improve their situation. The scheme needs reform to allow more flexibility so that it benefits more workers, has greater quality control, and targets those who need it most.”
Nowak concluded, “Training pays for itself. Revitalizing our skills system should be a core part of a new UK industrial strategy. That’s how we can get the economy growing again so that we are all better off.”
As criticisms mount, it is clear that the Apprenticeship Levy, while well-intentioned, requires significant changes to effectively support the development of the UK’s workforce.
Welcome to Union News This week: Government Benefit Overhaul Sparks Criticism from Campaigners, WASPI Women Await Compensation: Prime Minister Faces Tough Questions, Teachers ‘Morally Blackmailed’ into Excessive Workloads, Union Warns, High Court Greenlights Challenge to Government’s Anti-Strike Laws, Firefighters Urged to Refrain from Assisting Police in Removing Pro-Palestine Protesters, BrewDog Founder James Watt Steps Down as CEO Amid Controversy, and finally, BrewDog Founder James Watt Steps Down as CEO Amid Controversy. Reporting is by Pat Harrington and music is from Tim Bragg.
Government Benefit Overhaul Sparks Criticism from Campaigners
Campaigners are voicing sharp criticism against the government’s recent benefit overhaul, arguing that it pushes single mothers and others on razor-thin margins deeper into financial instability.
Under the new rules implemented today, universal credit claimants earning less than £892 will be required to search for additional or higher-paying work. Failure to meet these expectations could result in the loss of benefits altogether.
The threshold has notably increased from £617 for individuals and £988 for couples. Now, individuals are expected to earn at least £1,437, a significant jump.
This means that individuals working less than 18 hours a week on minimum wage will now have to actively seek more employment opportunities. Additionally, those working less than half of a full-time week will face more frequent meetings with their work coach to boost earnings or risk penalties.
The Department for Work and Pensions estimates that around 180,000 people will be affected by these changes.
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak defended the reforms, stating that “welfare should always be a safety net and not a lifestyle choice.” He believes the changes will help more people on universal credit transition into well-paid jobs and achieve financial independence.
However, Michael Clarke, head of information programmes at anti-poverty charity Turn2us, disagrees. Clarke argues that the threshold rises severely challenge those juggling jobs with irregular or fluctuating incomes and balancing responsibilities like childcare.
“For single mothers and others on razor-thin margins, these adjustments risk tipping them into crisis, exacerbating financial insecurity and mental stress as they struggle to meet the new demands,” Clarke stated.
He emphasized the importance of a support system that truly aids those in need rather than penalizing them.
These reforms come in the wake of other welfare changes announced by Mr. Sunak last month, including a review into Personal Independent Payment (PIP), a non means-tested benefit aiding individuals with extra costs due to long-term disability or ill health.
Sunak pledged to reduce the number of those with mental health conditions claiming PIP and introduce a more “rigorous” approach, sparking criticism from campaigners who accuse him of launching a “full-on assault” on disabled people.
WASPI Women Await Compensation: Prime Minister Faces Tough Questions
During this week’s Prime Minister’s Questions session, SNP MP Chris Law directed a pointed query to Prime Minister Rishi Sunak regarding the much-anticipated compensation for WASPI (Women Against State Pension Inequality) women. Law pressed, “Can the Prime Minister finally set out when the WASPI women will receive the compensation they rightly deserve?”
The discussion referenced a motion passed by the Scottish Government advocating for “compensation in full” for the 3.8 million affected women. Responding to the inquiry, Sunak acknowledged the gravity of the issue, stating, “I understand the strong feelings across the Chamber on this topic, and the desire for urgency in addressing them.” He emphasized the need to meticulously review the comprehensive findings of the ombudsman’s five-year investigation before providing an update to the House.
The awaited report from the Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman (PHSO), released in March, recommended payments ranging from £1,000 to £2,950, urging Parliament to take decisive action on the matter. Echoing sentiments from various MPs, who have advocated for larger payouts, the Prime Minister highlighted the government’s commitment to ensuring pensioners’ dignity and security in retirement, citing recent increases to the state pension.
Members of the PHSO, appearing before a parliamentary committee, suggested that some WASPI women might merit payments exceeding the recommended levels outlined in the report. Interim PHSO ombudsman Rebecca Hilsenrath acknowledged the possibility of direct financial loss for certain individuals beyond those included in the sample cases studied.
WASPI chair Angle Madden reiterated the urgency of the matter, underscoring the financial hardships faced by many women as a result of delayed pensions. Madden emphasized the significant impact on those who had sacrificed full-time employment to care for loved ones, asserting the tangible financial consequences of such decisions.
As pressure mounts and expectations heighten, the quest for equitable compensation for WASPI women remains at the forefront of political discourse, underscoring the need for swift and substantive action to address this longstanding injustice.
Teachers ‘Morally Blackmailed’ into Excessive Workloads, Union Warns
Amid mounting concerns over the working conditions of teachers in Scotland, the Scottish Secondary Teachers Association (SSTA) has sounded the alarm, accusing educators of being “morally blackmailed” into accepting unsustainable levels of unpaid work.
Addressing delegates at the SSTA’s annual conference, union president Stuart Hunter highlighted the pervasive culture of excessive workloads, attributing it to a sense of obligation driven by the belief that additional tasks are necessary “for the sake of the kids.” Hunter lamented the toll this phenomenon takes on teachers’ mental health and called for an end to the cycle of emotional manipulation.
In the backdrop of Glasgow’s decision to slash 450 teaching positions over the next three years, Hunter criticized the lack of support for educators, noting the absence of vital roles such as social workers and educational psychologists. He denounced budget cuts as a political tactic, accusing authorities of prioritizing austerity measures over the well-being of teachers and students.
Meanwhile, the National Association of Schoolmasters Union of Women Teachers (NASUWT), hosting its own conference, highlighted the escalating crisis of violence and abuse faced by teachers in schools. NASUWT’s Scotland official, Mike Corbett, emphasized the urgent need for measures to address the effects of this alarming trend, citing recent incidents of weapon attacks on school premises.
Teachers’ safety concerns have been met with calls for immediate action from the Scottish government. While acknowledging the need for enhanced well-being support for school staff, officials stated that over £2 million has been allocated since October 2020 to address these issues.
As teachers and unions continue to raise the alarm on unsustainable workloads and safety risks in schools, pressure mounts on authorities to prioritize the welfare of educators and students alike in Scotland’s education system.
High Court Greenlights Challenge to Government’s Anti-Strike Laws
In a significant legal development, the High Court has granted permission for a judicial review of the government’s controversial Strikes (Minimum Service Levels) Act 2023, a move hailed as a victory for workers’ rights.
Civil Service union PCS will spearhead the challenge against the legislation, which grants employers in specific sectors unprecedented powers to enforce minimum service levels during strike actions, effectively compelling workers to undermine their own protests or risk dismissal.
Both PCS and the Trades Union Congress (TUC) welcomed the court’s decision, viewing it as a crucial step in combating what they perceive as an assault on trade union freedoms.
PCS General Secretary Fran Heathcote condemned the government’s attempt to curtail workers’ right to strike, highlighting the effectiveness of previous strike actions undertaken by PCS members in securing concessions. Heathcote vowed to resist any erosion of workers’ rights and expressed gratitude for the opportunity to challenge the legislation through legal avenues.
TUC General Secretary Paul Nowak echoed these sentiments, characterizing the Strikes Act as a regressive measure that undermines the fundamental right to strike. He criticized the government’s persistence in pushing through these reforms despite warnings about their potential unlawfulness and detrimental impact on industrial relations.
This legal setback for the government comes on the heels of private rail operators’ refusal to enforce minimum service regulations on striking train drivers represented by the union Aslef. The defiance of these regulations underscores the deep-seated resistance among workers to what they perceive as unjust constraints on their ability to collectively bargain and protest.
As the legal challenge gains momentum, workers and unions remain steadfast in their commitment to safeguarding the right to strike and challenging legislative measures that impede their ability to advocate for fair wages and working conditions.
Firefighters Urged to Refrain from Assisting Police in Removing Pro-Palestine Protesters
In a show of solidarity with the pro-Palestine movement, the Fire Brigades Union (FBU) has issued a directive to its 32,000 members, urging them not to aid police in evicting protesters engaging in rooftop occupations of British factories manufacturing weapons for Israel.
The call to action comes in response to an incident in Leicester where firefighters from the Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service were summoned by police to address an occupation staged by supporters of the direct action group Palestine Action at the Israeli-owned Elbit Tactical Systems factory.
During the operation, firefighters were observed using an aerial appliance to remove a protester from the occupied building, sparking controversy over their involvement in what some perceive as a law enforcement activity.
In a message to firefighters following the incident, FBU General Secretary Matt Wrack underscored the primary role of firefighters in saving lives and protecting communities, emphasizing that there is no justification for their involvement in the removal of protesters. Wrack reiterated the union’s stance in supporting the rights of protesters and advocating for peace and justice in Gaza.
The FBU’s directive advises members to refrain from participating in law enforcement activities alongside the police, particularly in situations involving the removal of protesters. This stance aligns with previous instances where firefighters have declined police requests for assistance during rooftop occupations of arms factories targeted by campaigners.
John Nicholson of Greater Manchester Friends of Palestine recalled an occasion when firefighters, upon being informed of the FBU’s policy on Palestine, opted not to assist police in removing protesters during an occupation at an Elbit UK factory in Oldham.
As tensions escalate in the region, pro-Palestine protests are expected to continue across Britain this weekend, highlighting ongoing international concerns over Israel’s military actions in Gaza and the plight of Palestinians seeking refuge amidst the conflict.
and finally, BrewDog Founder James Watt Steps Down as CEO Amid Controversy
James Watt, co-founder of the Scottish brewery and pub group BrewDog, has announced his decision to transition to the newly-created role of “captain and co-founder,” retaining his shares in the company. This move will see Chief Operating Officer James Arrow assume the position of CEO, marking a significant shift in leadership for the company.
Established in Fraserburgh, Aberdeenshire, in 2007 by Watt and Martin Dickie, BrewDog has grown to encompass breweries and pubs worldwide, while maintaining its headquarters in Ellon, Aberdeenshire. Reflecting on his tenure as CEO, Watt expressed gratitude for the journey of the past 17 years, acknowledging the highs and lows experienced during his time at the helm.
However, Watt’s leadership has been marred by controversy in recent years, with BrewDog facing criticism over its marketing campaigns and workplace culture. Former employees publicly accused the company of fostering a “culture of fear” and “toxic attitudes” towards junior staff in an open letter in 2021. Furthermore, BrewDog drew ire earlier this year for its decision to abandon its commitment to the real living wage in favour of the minimum wage for new hires.
The announcement of Watt’s departure has been met with celebration by members of Unite, the union representing workers across BrewDog. Bryan Simpson, lead organiser for the hospitality sector at Unite, criticized Watt for presiding over a culture of bullying and mistreatment within the company. Simpson emphasized the need for BrewDog to address the concerns raised by workers and urged the company to prioritize improving pay and conditions in collaboration with the union.
As BrewDog undergoes this transition in leadership, it faces the challenge of rebuilding trust and addressing longstanding issues to foster a more positive and inclusive workplace environment for its employees.
