Being able to organise at work and be part of an independent trade union is a hallmark of living in a free society. So too is the right to withdraw your labour. Without this right we do not live in a free society.
The UK has the most restrictive laws across Europe for being able to take industrial action.
Successive Conservative governments have restricted and limited trade unions from taking effective action over the years by:-
- Imposing postal ballots with specific timescales for notice of action.
- Making any action in support of other workers illegal.
- Removing benefits for strikers.
- Extending the notice period of action.
- Forcing re-ballots every six months.
- Imposing at least 50% turnout for any vote being able to call legal strike action.
Now the Tories have imposed ‘Minimum Service Levels’ on those who vote to strike, which is designed to undermine effective strike action by forcing some to work or face the sack. With the bosses deciding who should work!
This is not the hallmark of a free society.
Last year saw several strikes across the UK as workers tried to maintain their living standards in the face of a cost-of-living crisis.
If you want to be able to defend yourself at work, or fight for better pay in the future, then join the march called by the TUC on Saturday 27 January.
Protect the Right to Strike: National march and rally
Saturday, January 27, 2024 • 12:00 PM
Assemble Montpellier Gardens, Cheltenham
Called by the TUC
Contact the Branch for transport details if you wish to go
email sandwellunison@btconnect.com