Union News 10th of November 2024

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1,610 words, 9 minutes read time.

Welcome to Union News your guide to what’s happening in the UK trade union and labour movement. Reports are by Pat Harrington and original music is from Tim Bragg. In this edition: First Bus Accused of Undermining Strikers’ Call for Real Living Wage, Victory for Low-Paid School Workers in John Swinney’s Constituency, Bolt Drivers Win Landmark Case Over Gig Economy Exploitation, G4S Security Workers Demand Equal Pay and Respect, and UN: Israel’s Gaza Attacks Kill Nearly 70% Civilians, Mostly Women and Children.

First Bus Accused of Undermining Strikers’ Call for Real Living Wage

Workers at First South Yorkshire are calling out their employer for hypocrisy after the company claimed to support their fight for the Real Living Wage while secretly undermining their ongoing strike. The workers, employed by contractor Bidvest Noonan at Sheffield’s Olive Grove depot, have been on strike for two months, demanding a pay increase from the current minimum wage of £11.44 per hour to £13.85 – the Real Living Wage. Unite the Union claims that instead of supporting their workers, First Bus has been using its own staff to cover duties during the strike, including moving buses in the depot, directly weakening the impact of the industrial action.

Unite General Secretary Sharon Graham accused First Bus of making false public statements about supporting the wage increase, while doing everything in its power to break the strike. “The hypocrisy of First West Yorkshire is astounding,” Graham said. “The reality is that First is actively trying to break the strike and keep workers on poverty wages.” The workers’ fight is a crucial one, not only for fair pay but for respect and dignity in the workplace, with the union vowing to continue the action until the Real Living Wage is implemented.

The dispute at First South Yorkshire highlights a wider issue within the transport and service industries, where many workers are struggling to make ends meet despite working full-time. With rising costs of living and increasing pressure on low-paid workers, the call for the Real Living Wage is louder than ever. Unite has pledged to escalate its support for these workers, warning that the strike will continue until First and Bidvest Noonan are forced to come to the negotiating table.

Victory for Low-Paid School Workers in John Swinney’s Constituency

Striking non-teaching staff in Perthshire North have secured a significant victory after pressure from Unison led to a credible new pay offer from the Convention of Scottish Local Authorities (Cosla). The workers, including cleaners and support staff in local schools, had been on strike for two weeks in a battle for a pay rise, rejecting an initial offer of just 3.6%. Despite resistance from the Scottish government and Cosla’s insistence that there were no more funds available, the workers won a revised offer that includes a £15 per hour minimum wage and a 5.6% raise for the lowest-paid staff.

Unison’s Collette Hunter hailed the agreement as a major success for the workers, saying that their industrial action had forced the Scottish government to come to the table and engage seriously with the issue. “We’ve secured these commitments thanks to the determination of our members and the solidarity they showed on the picket lines,” Hunter said. The new offer is a direct result of sustained pressure on Cosla and the Scottish government, who now face the task of addressing the broader funding crisis in local councils.

However, the battle isn’t over. Cosla is still grappling with a massive budget shortfall, and workers’ unions are calling for more significant action to ensure that the funding crisis doesn’t undermine the gains made by these workers. With a new round of negotiations expected in December, trade unions are urging the Scottish government to allocate more funds to local councils to prevent further cuts to essential services. The struggle for fair wages and proper funding continues.

Bolt Drivers Win Landmark Case Over Gig Economy Exploitation

In a major victory for gig economy workers, Bolt drivers have won a groundbreaking legal case that could see each of the 15,000 affected drivers receive an estimated £15,000 in backdated compensation for underpayment. The ruling, which goes further than the previous Supreme Court case against Uber, determines that Bolt drivers are not self-employed contractors but workers, entitled to minimum wage and holiday pay. Leigh Day, the firm representing the drivers, confirmed that the compensation package could reach up to £200 million across the UK.

This ruling is a significant blow to gig economy giants like Bolt, which have long relied on classifying drivers as independent contractors to avoid providing basic worker rights such as paid sick leave, holiday pay, and minimum wage. GMB’s Eamon O’Hearn celebrated the decision, calling it a major victory for workers in the gig economy, but warned that the battle is far from over. “This ruling confirms what we’ve been saying all along: gig workers deserve the same rights and protections as any other worker,” O’Hearn said.

While Bolt has expressed disappointment and indicated plans to appeal the decision, unions are calling for broader legislative changes to protect gig workers across the UK. App Drivers & Couriers Union General Secretary Zamir Dreni emphasized that the government must act to fix the gaps in current employment laws, which have allowed companies like Bolt and Uber to exploit workers for too long. The fight for fair pay and conditions in the gig economy is gaining momentum, with workers and unions pushing for systemic change to ensure that all workers are treated with the dignity and respect they deserve.

G4S Security Workers Demand Equal Pay and Respect

Security workers employed by multinational G4S to serve at government departments in central London are demanding an end to poverty wages and the same pay and conditions as their directly employed civil service counterparts. The workers, who are striking outside Whitehall for the second week, have been offered a paltry 5p pay rise by the company, a proposal which has been roundly rejected by PCS union members. The workers, who are vital to maintaining security at government buildings, argue that G4S is making massive profits while cutting essential benefits for its staff—an injustice they are determined to fight.

“We’re being asked to do the same job as civil servants, but with far less pay and fewer rights. G4S is pocketing huge profits, while we struggle to make ends meet,” one striker explained. “They outsourced our jobs to cut costs, but that’s meant fewer benefits for us. We have no guaranteed sick pay, no maternity or paternity leave, and the little we do get is far less than what our colleagues in the civil service enjoy. Meanwhile, the government continues to fund these private companies through taxpayers’ money, yet refuses to ensure that we’re paid fairly for the crucial work we do.” For these workers, the fight is not just about pay—it’s about ensuring that essential workers are not treated as disposable commodities in a privatised system that profits at their expense.

The mood on the picket line is upbeat and defiant, as strikers bring energy and unity to the streets of Whitehall. “This isn’t just about us getting a better pay deal,” said Mohammed, a striker who is participating in his first strike action. “This is about showing that we deserve the same respect as those who work directly for the government. The company has been treating us like second-class citizens for too long, and we won’t let that continue.” The strikers, a diverse group representing different cultures and backgrounds, have been using music, whistles, and chants to bring attention to their cause, demonstrating their resolve and solidarity. “The more we strike, the more we gain confidence,” Mohammed added. “At first, we didn’t know how to go about it, but now we’ve got our voices heard. Our spirits are unbreakable, and we’re here until we win what we deserve.” The growing strength of their collective action is sending a powerful message: these workers will no longer be ignored.

and finally, UN: Israel’s Gaza Attacks Kill Nearly 70% Civilians, Mostly Women and Children

A new UN report reveals that almost 70 percent of those killed in Israeli airstrikes on Gaza over the past six months were civilians, with women and children bearing the brunt of the violence. The report, released today by the UN Human Rights Office, details the disproportionate impact on Gaza’s most vulnerable populations, calling Israel’s actions a violation of international law and warning that war crimes may have been committed.

From November 2023 to April 2024, 8,119 Palestinians were killed, with 44 percent of victims being children and 26 percent women. The report highlights that many of the deaths occurred in residential buildings, where around 80 percent of the casualties were trapped in their homes when Israeli bombs struck. The UN has condemned Israel’s use of heavy weaponry in such densely populated areas, pointing to a blatant disregard for civilian life.

“The killing and injury of civilians on this scale is a direct consequence of Israel’s failure to comply with international humanitarian law,” said Volker Turk, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights. “There must be accountability for these violations.”

Israel maintains that its military operations are aimed at Hamas, but has yet to provide evidence of its claims that Palestinian fighters are using civilians as human shields. Despite these assertions, the ongoing siege and airstrikes continue to devastate Gaza, with 39 Palestinians reported killed and over 120 injured in Israeli attacks today.

As the crisis deepens, international calls for justice grow louder, urging accountability for the mass civilian deaths and the continued siege of Gaza.

By Maria Camara

Picture Credits

By Geof Sheppard – Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=35223084

Union News 26th of May 2024

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1,838 words, 10 minutes read time.

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 Faces Privatisation Battle Amid Harris Federation Controversy

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.

Workers Party of Great Britain Logo
By https://workerspartybritain.org/, Fair use, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?curid=68206749

Union News 28th of June 2023

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Welcome to Union News, your weekly podcast of reports from the Trade Union and labour movement in the UK. In this week’s edition: Junior Doctors Set to Launch Major Strikes, Challenging Tories and Hospital Bosses in Pay Battle, Successful Edinburgh Meeting Calls for an End to the War in Ukraine, 20,000 Rail Workers to Strike in July Amid Pay Dispute with Train Operators, Xplore Dundee bus workers resume strike action over rejected pay offer, Amazon workers in Coventry set to strike for three days during Prime week, warns GMB, North-West University Support Staff Escalate Strikes Demanding Fair Pay, and finally, Sun Editorial shows need for a pro-union Counter Media. Music is by Tim Bragg.

Junior Doctors escalate strikes

Junior doctors are preparing for a major block of strikes, aiming to challenge the government and hospital administrators. The upcoming five-day strike, scheduled for July 13, will be the longest single walkout in NHS history. The British Medical Association (BMA) has called for fair pay, demanding a 35 percent rise to bring salaries back to 2008 levels. The announcement coincided with the closing of a strike ballot by the Royal College of Nursing (RCN). If the RCN members vote in favor of striking, there may be joint action with the BMA. The BMA highlights the government’s lack of commitment to resolving the dispute, with no effort made to reopen negotiations. The ongoing NHS pay battle seeks to address the workforce crisis, with millions on waiting lists for treatment and thousands of unfilled doctor positions. The escalation of the pay campaign is crucial, and the support of all trade unionists on hospital picket lines is essential. The BMA is currently balloting hospital consultants, and their strike is planned for July 20 and 21. While simultaneous strikes by junior doctors and consultants could pose a significant challenge to the government, the BMA has ruled out such action at this time. However, united NHS strikes have the potential to force the government to address the pay issue.

Successful Edinburgh Meeting Calls for an End to the War in Ukraine

On Saturday 24th of June a rally was held next to the Holyrood Parliament in Edinburgh with the object stated as addressing: “The recklessness of British policy on Ukraine is a threat to us all and to world peace. Send out a strong message and reaffirm our democratic right to assembly and free speech: End this war!”

In glorious summer sunshine the crowd heard speeches from, amongst others, Brian Gerrish of the UK Column, Lauren Wilson of the Workers Party of Britain and Peter Ford, former ambassador to Bahrain and Syria.

20,000 Rail Workers to Strike in July Amid Pay Dispute with Train Operators

Approximately 20,000 rail workers are set to go on strike in July as part of a nationwide rail dispute. The strike action comes after train operators rejected a new pay offer, backed by the Tories who support the privatised rail firms. Members of the RMT union working across 14 train operating companies will walk out on July 20, 22, and 29. RMT general secretary Mick Lynch emphasized that the strike mandate was renewed by an overwhelming majority, and the union will continue its campaign until a satisfactory agreement is reached on pay, working conditions, and job security.

The latest pay offer from the Rail Delivery Group, representing the bosses, is a mere 5 percent pay increase for the 2022-23 period, significantly below the inflation rate. Additionally, the union would have to accept company-by-company negotiations for a major restructuring of job roles and conditions before a pay rise for 2023-24 is considered. The fragmented talks and proposed changes by the rail companies, such as a single flexible station grade and closed ticket offices, have sparked concerns among union leaders. Despite some leaders possibly viewing the 5 percent offer as acceptable without the conditions attached, it is regarded as inadequate and should be rejected.

While the new strikes are welcomed, it is evident that achieving victory will require a higher level of action. The upcoming anti-union laws that the Tories plan to pass in parliament pose a threat, allowing for minimum service levels during strikes and potential repercussions for non-compliance. Rail workers will likely be among the early targets. In the negotiations, unions should demand a firm commitment from employers to refrain from utilizing these laws under any circumstances. The Scottish government has already agreed to this condition, raising the question of why rail bosses have not followed suit. Any employer resorting to these laws must be met with mass defiance and non-compliance.

In a separate development, RMT members working as ticket inspectors on Arriva Rail London (London Overground) have commenced voting on whether to strike. The vote stems from a collective grievance that has not been adequately addressed, with the employer failing to adhere to the proper procedures outlined in the collective bargaining agreement. The ballot will run until July 11.

Xplore Dundee bus workers resume strike action over rejected pay offer

Bus workers employed by Xplore Dundee went back on strike this weekend after rejecting the latest pay proposal. Members of Unite, the union representing the workers, had previously walked out in a heated dispute concerning pay, terms, and conditions at the city’s privately-owned bus operator, which is part of the McGills group. The workers were dissatisfied with a below-inflation pay increase of 7 percent, ongoing restrictions on sick pay, and the accumulation of hundreds of days in outstanding annual leave owed by the company.

The employer, known for its anti-trade union stance, further provoked workers by displaying pictures of the city’s shuttered Timex factory on noticeboards during the strike ballot. This was seen as a veiled threat, which became explicit during negotiations when the company hinted at folding the business and terminating employees to be rehired. The workers had temporarily suspended their 12-week strike to consider a new offer, but according to Unite representative Dougie Maguire, the proposed terms failed to meet their needs, particularly amidst the current cost-of-living crisis.

Maguire emphasized that for a resolution to the dispute, Xplore Dundee must present an offer that aligns with the expectations and demands of the workers.

Amazon workers in Coventry set to strike for three days during Prime week, warns GMB

The GMB union issued a warning today that the upcoming three-day pay strikes at Amazon’s Coventry warehouse will have a significant impact on one of the online retail giant’s busiest weeks of the year. The walkouts, scheduled for July 11, 12, and 13, coincide with the company’s annual Prime week event, known for offering substantial discounts on popular products to drive sales.

Nearly 900 workers in the West Midlands are expected to participate in the ongoing dispute, marking the first time that British-based Amazon staff have taken strike action. The conflict, initiated in January following a meagre 50p hourly wage increase, has already resulted in 19 days of strikes.

Rachel Fagan, senior organiser at GMB, emphasized the staggering sales figures generated during Prime week, which can reach up to £2 billion. In light of this, she criticized the company for denying low-paid workers a wage that enables them to meet their financial needs. The message from GMB members to Amazon is clear: human beings cannot be undervalued and underpaid.

North-West University Support Staff Escalate Strikes Demanding Fair Pay

Support staff at universities in north-west England are intensifying their strike action in protest of their pay. Employees such as cleaners, IT technicians, administrators, and library staff at Manchester Metropolitan University will walk out today and tomorrow, adding to the six days of strikes that began last week. They will also strike on July 5, 6, and 7. Additionally, support staff at the University of Liverpool and Liverpool Hope University took action on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday.

These workers, who are members of the public-sector union Unison, are demanding fairer compensation for their vital roles in ensuring a positive university experience for students. Unison’s North West regional organiser, Kate Doyle, criticized the generous executive pay and bonuses enjoyed by senior leaders in higher education while support staff have faced years of pay cuts in real terms. Doyle called on the universities to reconsider their inadequate pay offer and improve wages. The workers have already rejected a 5 to 8 percent pay rise.

and finally, Sun Editorial shows need for a pro-union Counter Media

The need for a pro-worker counter media arises from several reasons that stem from the shortcomings and biases present in mainstream media. This is especially evident in the editorial you mentioned from The Sun newspaper, which highlights the importance of alternative sources of information that prioritize the interests and well-being of workers. Here are some key reasons why a pro-worker counter media is necessary:

Challenging biased narratives: Mainstream media outlets often have corporate interests or political affiliations that can lead to biased reporting. As a result, they may prioritize the perspectives and agendas of the elite or powerful, neglecting the concerns and struggles of the working class. A pro-worker counter media aims to challenge these biased narratives and provide a platform for alternative viewpoints.

Amplifying worker voices: Workers’ perspectives and experiences are crucial in understanding socio-economic issues, labor rights, and workplace conditions. However, these voices are often marginalized or overshadowed in mainstream media. Pro-worker media outlets prioritize amplifying the voices of workers, allowing them to share their stories, concerns, and demands, thereby fostering a more inclusive and democratic media landscape.

Raising awareness of labor rights: Many workers face challenges such as exploitation, unfair wages, unsafe working conditions, and inadequate labour protections. Mainstream media may not adequately cover these issues or provide in-depth analysis of labour rights violations. A pro-worker counter media strives to educate the public about labour rights, workplace abuses, and the need for social and economic justice.

Holding power to account: Media plays a crucial role in holding power accountable, including government institutions, corporations, and other influential entities. However, when media outlets have vested interests tied to these powerful entities, their ability to provide objective scrutiny may be compromised. Pro-worker media outlets are less likely to be influenced by these interests, allowing them to provide a more independent and critical perspective on power dynamics and abuses.

Fostering solidarity and organizing efforts: Pro-worker counter media can serve as a platform for fostering solidarity among workers, unions, and labour movements. By highlighting success stories, organizing efforts, and collective actions, these media outlets can inspire and mobilize workers, contributing to a stronger labour movement and improved working conditions.

Examples like the Morning Star, Workers magazine, and the Union News podcast that you mentioned are important alternatives that prioritize the interests of workers and provide a counter-narrative to the dominant mainstream media. Supporting such outlets can help create a more balanced media landscape, ensure the representation of workers’ concerns, and contribute to a fairer society.

If you’ve enjoyed this edition of Union News please consider sharing, liking and subscribing.

Union News (18 June 2023)

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Welcome to Union News, the weekly podcast from the labour and trade union movement in the UK. In this edition: Unmasking the Cover-Up: Orgreave Truth and Justice Campaign Fights for Accountability, The People Stand with Nurses: Public Support Surges as Strike Action Continues, Rising Cost of Living Hits Hard: Public Service Workers Struggle to Make Ends Meet, Rising Cost of Living Hits Hard: Public Service Workers Struggle to Make Ends Meet, Train Drivers Take a Stand: Strikes Loom as Working Agreements Come Under Fire, Strike for Change: Junior Doctors Demand Decisive Action on Pay, and finally, Pay Battle Escalates: Teachers in England Set for July Strikes. Writing is by the Solidarity team and music is by Tim Bragg.

Unmasking the Cover-Up: Orgreave Truth and Justice Campaign Fights for Accountability

The Orgreave Truth and Justice Campaign (OTJC) renewed its calls for an inquiry into a severe state attack on organized workers by the Conservative government at a march this week. The campaign seeks to hold those responsible accountable for their actions. The campaigners argue that an inquiry would expose the government’s lies and cover-ups regarding their role in managing the pit closure program, orchestrating militaristic police operations during the miners’ strike in the 1980s, and manipulating the courts and media to create a false narrative that demonized and criminalized workers fighting for their jobs and communities.

The incident in question took place on June 18, 1984, when police confronted striking miners at the Orgreave Coking Plant in South Yorkshire. The police had previously impeded pickets and engaged in acts of violence. On that day, they corralled the miners into a field and initiated a violent charge with mounted and riot police, leading to what has been referred to as the “Battle of Orgreave.” However, eyewitnesses and campaigners contend that it was an assault rather than a battle, with the police being the only armed side.

The OTJC argues that an inquiry is essential due to several factors, including pardons granted by the Scottish government to Scottish miners arrested during the strike, ongoing resentment in former mining communities, the withholding of strike-related documents until 2066, and growing public support for the campaign. They believe that a comprehensive and authoritative review is in the public interest to uncover the truth about what transpired and why the workers were treated so harshly.

Despite the evidence compiled and submitted, the Tory government has refused to grant pardons or initiate an inquiry into the events at Orgreave. The OTJC emphasizes that no one in government or the police has been held accountable for their actions. They view the government’s attempts to bury these issues as a serious threat to democracy. Some campaigners suspect that the government fears an Orgreave inquiry would expose scandals, corruption, and attempts to suppress dissent. They argue that the right to protest and strike should not be subject to the state’s discretion but should be inherent rights in a democratic society.

The People Stand with Nurses: Public Support Surges as Strike Action Continues

Support for striking nurses has surged even higher than when the industrial action began six months ago, according to the Royal College of Nursing (RCN). In an RCN poll, it was revealed that 62 percent of the public now backs the strikes, marking the highest level of support for any profession engaged in strike action. A majority of supporters expressed strong support for nurses. Additionally, more than eight in 10 respondents (82 percent) expressed their backing for a pay increase for nurses.

The RCN is conducting a second ballot among its 300,000 members as per government regulations, which require reballoting after a six-month period of industrial action. If nurses vote to continue their campaign, the strike will persist until December of this year, with voting concluding on June 23.

RCN General Secretary and Chief Executive Pat Cullen acknowledged the immense public support received by nursing staff during this time. The presence of patients on picket lines, some coming directly from their hospital beds, provided a significant morale boost for the nurses concerned about leaving patients unattended. Cullen emphasized that the unwavering public support should draw attention in Downing Street, calling on Rishi Sunak to recognize the significance of this backing. Cullen stressed the importance of doing right by nurses, as it ultimately benefits patients as well. Cullen noted that support for the nursing strikes cuts across party lines, and urged Sunak to regain public support this summer. The upcoming 75th anniversary of the NHS is expected to elevate this issue further in the context of elections.

Rising Cost of Living Hits Hard: Public Service Workers Struggle to Make Ends Meet

During a debate on the rising cost of living, Unison delegates highlighted the difficult choices faced by public service workers, including having to sacrifice meals to provide for their children. The cost-of-living crisis disproportionately affects already disadvantaged workers, including women, black, disabled, LGBT, and young members.

Yvonne Green from the Greater London region expressed concern over members struggling to meet their financial obligations and being priced out of living near their workplaces due to escalating housing costs. She emphasized the importance of supporting and holding employers accountable to address these issues.

Tina Roach from the Northern region highlighted the insecurity faced by many individuals, with some members even relying on charitable donations as current benefits prove inadequate. She lamented that instead of making progress in eradicating poverty, the country is witnessing the opposite trend.

The conference resolved to advocate for a well-funded public sector that prioritizes its workers and to raise awareness of the mounting financial pressures faced by public service workers.

Train Drivers Take a Stand: Strikes Loom as Working Agreements Come Under Fire

Train drivers from the union Aslef have initiated two new disputes against private rail operators to protect their working agreements. Avanti West Coast is being accused of attacking the workers’ sick pay agreement, leading to a vote in favour of strike action. The drivers will stage a 24-hour walkout on Sunday, July 2. In a separate dispute, drivers at London North Eastern Railways (LNER) will enforce an overtime ban starting from Saturday, July 1. These conflicts add to Aslef’s ongoing national dispute over pay.

Mick Whelan, the general secretary of Aslef, expressed regret that their members had to resort to such actions but emphasized that they would not tolerate violations of their agreed terms and conditions by the train operating companies. Whelan stated that they have been actively seeking resolutions to these disputes for several months, but unless the operators honor their agreements, further action will be necessary.

Strike for Change: Junior Doctors Demand Decisive Action on Pay

Junior doctors in England, following their 72-hour walkout, are being encouraged to escalate their strikes to demand proper negotiations and a substantial pay offer. Tens of thousands of doctors, supported by the BMA union, took part in a march from Tavistock Square to Parliament Square last week, calling for fair pay and the preservation of the NHS. The government’s current offer of a mere 5 percent pay increase has been deemed inadequate, leading to calls for more decisive action. Junior doctors express concerns about the strain on waiting lists and the shortage of staff, emphasizing the importance of unity and continued strikes. They are also considering collaborating with other unions, such as the RCN nurses’ union, to strengthen their cause. The ultimate goal is to bring about meaningful negotiations for a significant pay offer and rejuvenate the fight to protect the NHS.

And finally, Pay Battle Escalates: Teachers in England Set for July Strikes

Teachers in England, represented by the National Education Union (NEU), are planning to strike over pay in July. The strikes are scheduled for two dates, 5th and 7th July, and are likely to result in the closure of many schools, either fully or partially. The NEU considers strike action as a last resort and is calling for renewed negotiations with the government. The Department for Education has expressed concerns that further strikes would negatively impact student learning.

The NEU has previously organized five national and three regional strike days since February, making it the largest education union in the UK. The most recent strike on 2nd May affected a significant number of schools, with less than half fully operational.

The joint general secretaries of the NEU, Dr. Mary Bousted and Kevin Courtney, accuse Education Secretary Gillian Keegan of abandoning teachers in England. They demand that Keegan engage in negotiations, as their previous appeals have been disregarded. Bousted and Courtney emphasize that Keegan possesses the authority to prevent the strikes.

State school teachers in England received a 5% pay increase for the 2022-23 academic year. The government also proposed a one-time cash payment of £1,000, which was forfeited when negotiations failed. The unions argue that the offer should be higher to account for inflation, and they insist that any pay rise should be funded by additional government funds rather than schools’ existing budgets.

The government has offered a 4.3% pay rise for most teachers in the 2023-24 academic year, with starting salaries reaching £30,000. The Department for Education regards this offer as fair and reasonable, noting that schools will receive an additional £2.3 billion over the next two years. It claims that, on average across England, the offer is fully funded, although individual schools will be affected differently.

Negotiations stalled when all four unions rejected the government’s offer, arguing that most schools would need to make cuts elsewhere to accommodate it. The unions are urging the government to disclose the recommendations of the independent pay review body, which advises on appropriate pay rises for teachers in the coming year.

Picture credits

Cops with riot shields: West Midlands Police from West Midlands, United Kingdom – Day 150 – West Midlands Police – Handsworth riots (1985), CC BY-SA 2.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=84332454
Teacher image 14995841 from Pixabay