Midlands TUC media

Northamptonshire MP Brian Binley sees the light

2012-02-02T12:56:00.000Z

Responding to East Midlands MP Brian Binley’s comments that the Chancellor has ‘lost his toolbox’ in finding ways to kick start growth, Rob Johnston, Midlands TUC Regional Secretary, said:

“The TUC, the IMF and now even Conservative MPs are raising concerns about the government’s self-defeating austerity policies that are choking off growth and sucking demand out of the economy.”

“Faced with a contracting economy, falling business and consumer confidence the Chancellor needs to change course quickly and find a plan for growth.”

“With banking lending needing to more than double to meet the UK’s economic needs, the Chancellor should fast-track infrastructure projects like house-building and road improvements, setup a new state investment bank and reform our banks so that they serve the consumer, rather than just enrich themselves.”

“Mr Binley should be encouraging the government to invest in Northamptonshire’s public services not cutting them. It is madness to be cutting street lighting – and literally cutting off lampposts – when until just before Christmas they were made at Tata Steel in Corby which has just announced a further 110 job losses. Investment should be made in Northamptonshire’s infrastructure generating demand and improving the area for business growth.”

Derbyshire County Council Cuts - letter to Derbyshire media

2012-02-02T11:51:00.000Z

Dear Editor

It’s a grim time for Derbyshire. 600 jobs and £25m cut from Derbyshire County Council. Beyond the numbers this means cuts for social services for older and disabled people, cuts to children's centres and cuts to youth clubs.

Let us be clear, painful cuts are the reality of the Government’s austerity agenda. It is a choice they did not have to make. It is an agenda that leaves the vulnerable on their on whilst the bankers who caused the crisis reward themselves with another multi-billion bonus pool bonanza.

The Government insists cuts are necessary. This could not be more wrong. These cuts are not only hurting our communities they are hurting our economy. The Derbyshire Unemployed Workers Centre has seen a five fold increase in the numbers coming through their doors struggling with the economic climate. And yet Derbyshire County Council has cut all their £34,000 funding. This is economics of the madhouse.

Centres like the Derbyshire Unemployed Workers Centre need active support from government. These are the services that can get our economy moving. Slashing and burning vital services is simply self defeating. We must escape this downward spiral

Rather than austerity and self-defeating cuts we need a change in direction. We need:

A more sensible timetable for deficit reduction: a realistic and achievable
10-year plan, bringing the deficit down but not choking off growth.

Fair taxation: a permanent tax on bankers' bonuses, a stronger banking levy, a clampdown on tax havens and tax avoidance, cutting back on pensions tax relief for the richest one per cent of the population who earn more than £150k a year, and a Robin Hood Tax on financial transactions.

A proper strategy for growth: helping people on low incomes increase their spending by a temporary cut in VAT, a reduction in National Insurance (NI) contributions or an increase in tax credits, fast-tracking infrastructure projects like house-building and road improvements, creating a smarter procurement strategy, setting up a new state investment bank and reforming the existing banks so that they serve the consumer, not enrich themselves.

Getting Britain working: creating a proper replacement for the Future Jobs Fund, reinstating the Educational Maintenance Allowance (EMA) keeping young people in college rather than on the dole, increasing university places and introducing intelligent, well-funded welfare-to-work schemes.

More even distribution of wealth: taking action to address the inequalities of wealth in the UK by introducing a living wage, worker representatives on company boards, new methods of corporate governance, greater shareholder activisim, new systems of ownership, or a bigger role for unions and collective bargaining.

So, in the debate about Derbyshire County Council cuts let us remember that cuts to the most vulnerable are not only morally wrong but that they are economically wrong.

It is time for a change of direction in Derbyshire, the Midlands and across the country. There really is an alternative.

Yours sincerely

Rob Johnston

Midlands TUC Regional Secretary

Bank lending must more than double to meet UK investment needs, TUC warns

2012-02-02T10:20:00.000Z

Rob Johnston, Midlands TUC Regional Secretary

Total bank lending to firms outside of finance and real estate must more than double in order to meet the investment needs of the UK economy over the next decade, says a TUC report published today (Thursday), ahead of a seminar on the future of banking at its central London headquarters this afternoon.

The TUC report Banking after Vickers says that government has indentified £450bn-worth of physical investment, vital to the UK over the next decade. But with the current stock of bank loans to non-financial firms (excluding real estate) at just £322bn, banks would need to more than double their current level of lending to meet UK investment needs. This simply won't happen without radical reform of the banking sector, says the TUC.

Banking after Vickers says that since 2008 the main focus of debate on banking has been preventing a repeat of the crash and subsequent taxpayer bailout, addressed by the Vickers Commission, and the remuneration of top bankers.

But with the UK's growth prospects dependent on greater investment and access to credit, particularly for SMEs, the report argues that reforming the banking sector so that it better supports the real economy is the most vital banking issue facing the UK.

The report sets out four challenges facing the UK banking sector: low investment, SMEs, sectoral and geographical rebalancing of the economy and green growth.

Banking after Vickers shows that the UK's level of investment has been either the lowest or second lowest in the G7 for 30 years, and that the banking sector has a poor track record of lending outside of real estate and finance.

While credit easing and the Green Investment Bank are positive first steps towards encouraging more lending, they fall well short of the level of investment the UK economy needs, says the TUC.

Midlands TUC Regional Secretary Rob Johnston said: "Much of the media and political debate around banking has been on top bonuses and preventing another financial crash.

"But while these are both important issues, people are more concerned about jobs, better wages and healthier businesses - and banks have a vital role to play in creating all this.

"Decades of under investment, compounded by banks' poor track record of lending outside of real estate and finance, have left the UK economy dangerously lopsided. Our economy is far too focused on finance and banking, and in the South East.

"Greater lending to SMEs and support for green investment is vital to our future economic prospects but our current banking system is woefully ill-equipped to lend.

"Bold new ideas are needed to reform the banking sector so that it returns to its proper place as the engine of wider economy growth, and not as the cause of an economic depression."

The report is published ahead of a TUC seminar on the future of banking, hosted at TUC HQ between 2 and 4pm today, with includes presentations from Dr Adam Posen, member of the Monetary Policy Committee, George Magnus, Senior Economic Advisor at UBS, and Professor Richard A. Werner of the University of Southampton.

The TUC seminar also includes a Q&A session with the guest speakers and a discussion on possible reforms to ensure that banks play a far greater role in supporting economic growth.

For info

- Banking after Vickers is available at www.tuc.org.uk/bankingaftervickers

- The seminar is from 2-4pm at Congress House, Great Russell Street, London WC1B 3LS.

Health workers and patients rally to save the NHS

2012-01-31T10:31:00.000Z

Frances O'Grady, TUC Deputy General Secretary

Unions representing hundreds of thousands of healthcare professionals and workers from across the NHS are to step up the pressure on peers with a central London rally as the Health and Social Care Bill enters its final crucial parliamentary stages.

On Wednesday 7 March - under the banner of the All Together for the NHS campaign - nurses, midwives, doctors, physiotherapists, managers, paramedics, radiographers, cleaners, porters and other employees from across the health service will join with patients to fill Central Hall Westminster for a 6pm 'Save our NHS' rally.

The Bill is hugely unpopular with NHS employees and patients, who have major concerns over the effect the draft legislation will have on healthcare by pushing through competition and markets on to the NHS, and allowing the private sector to take over delivering NHS services.

The All Together for the NHS campaign has called the rally over concerns that an NHS with a future based on competition will fragment the health service, worsen the care available to patients, and mean continued uncertainty for NHS employees, with the quality of training and their terms and conditions likely to suffer.

The pressure on the Secretary of State, Andrew Lansley, has been growing in recent weeks with more professional bodies joining the calls to amend significantly or withdraw the Bill completely. The March rally is intended to add to that pressure by demonstrating the broad coalition of opposition to Bill.

TUC Deputy General Secretary Frances O'Grady said: "Some changes have been made to the Bill but not nearly enough. Only this week we have seen a private company taking over an NHS hospital for the first time, as Circle moves in to the Hinchingbrooke Hospital in Cambridgeshire. This will be the future the NHS has to look forward to if the Bill stays in its current form.

"Peers must listen to the concerns of the people that know the NHS best - the staff who work in it. Health workers fear the increased competition and the extension of markets will have a devastating impact on patient care, especially poorer people who will find themselves pushed to the back of ever-growing waiting lists.

"But it's not too late for peers to make a difference and we hope our rally in early March will provide the opportunity for NHS workers and patients to send a loud message across Parliament Square to convince the House of Lords that this Bill would be a disaster for the NHS."

Tax advisers strike to stop creep of privatisation

2012-01-30T20:33:00.002Z

A strike by PCS members will see picket lines mounted at tax offices as tens of thousands of taxpayers seek advice about filing their self assessment returns tomorrow.

The one-day walkout is in opposition to year-long call handling trials using two private sector companies, Sitel and Teleperformance, due to start next month in two enquiry centres in Cumbria and Scotland.

Up to 20,000 members of the union who work in HM Revenue and Customs call centres and face to face enquiry offices across the UK are expected to take part, the union says.

While people will still be able to file returns online, enquiry lines will be closed or seriously delayed for the tens of thousands of people who will use the service on the day to get help and advice.

The union believes the trials are unnecessary as the skills and expertise already exists in the department, and set a dangerous precedent of allowing the private sector in. One of companies involved has advertised posts for the trial as 'permanent' and at a rate of pay several thousand pounds less a year than the civil servants doing the same work are paid.

If HMRC wants to trial new ways of working, the union says HMRC should invest in its own staff, instead of pressing ahead with plans to cut another 10,000 jobs by 2015 - on top of the 30,000 that have gone from the department since 2005. HMRC last week announced plans to close more advice offices.

This would mean the government could make a serious attempt at tackling the tens of billions of pounds in tax that goes uncollected every year from a minority of very wealthy individuals and organisations that avoid or evade paying their dues.

PCS general secretary Mark Serwotka said: "Our members in tax offices want to do a good job and provide the best possible advice and help to taxpayers, but there are fewer of them working in fewer offices as a result of misguided and damaging cuts.

"Instead of making even more cuts and throwing public money at private companies, ministers should be investing in their staff and tackling the billions in tax avoided and evaded by the super-rich."

Reprinted from the PCS website. View original article here:

http://www.pcs.org.uk/

2012-01-26T14:29:00.000Z

Pictures from Chesterfield where Remploy workers are on strike today (Thursday 26th January)

Remploy workers out in Chesterfield

2012-01-26T14:07:00.000Z

Phil Davis, GMB National Secretary visits Chesterfield

This has been a week for visiting picket lines in the region. Today we added our support to Remploy workers in Chesterfield who are protesting about the company signing a contract which means that a private company is using able bodied staff to work in Remploy factories - when the whole purpose of Remploy is to provide work for those with a disability.

Pictured is GMB National Secretary for Remploy workers, on his visit to Chesterfield today.

The factory was closed for business, and hearteningly delivery lorries were refusing to cross the picket lines.

This was one picket line with a traditional brazier burning brightly - not that I'm knocking the patio heaters on display yesterday at Unilever in Burton on Trent!

Tanker drivers "we just want to keep what we have"

2012-01-25T14:45:00.000Z

Tanker drivers at Kingsbury oil depots today were pursuing their demands to stay where they were! "We don't want more, just the same as we already have!" The strike, which is scheduled to last for a week if the company does not see sense, has been well supported. "Drivers from some other companies have refused to cross our picket lines, we are very grateful for their support in this dispute, " said one striker. "Its good to know that petrol stations we would serve are not getting fresh supplies, perhaps that will make the company see sense".
Messages of support can be sent to the strikers via the Midlands TUC at aweaver@tuc.org.uk

Strong support at Marmite picket in Burton

2012-01-25T14:04:00.003Z

Strinking Marmite workers were out in force and in high spirits today on the picket line outside the Burton Upon Trent site.

Strikers were joined by Jennie Formby, UNITE's National Secretary for the Food, Drink and Tobacco Sector and the Midlands TUC Regional Secretary Rob Johnston

Rob Johnston said: "The people of Burton sent a strong message of support this morning with hoons blaring constantly as they passed the picket line.

It is clear that the public know that, quite simply, it is wrong to slash staff pensions at a time when Unilver profits are over £6bn and the boss is paid a small fortune - including £300,000 last year into his pension pot.

The striking workers should be proud of the stance they have taken and a strong message is being sent to Unilever. The company should now sit down with the unions and negotiate to retain a final salary scheme."

110 job losses at Tata in Corby

2012-01-25T13:54:00.000Z

Steel giant Tata is to axe 110 jobs at its main Corby plant.

Michael Leahy, general secretary of the Community union, said: "This is a massive blow for the workforce in Corby who have done everything expected of them to keep the site viable.

"The impact on the local community and families will be particularly hard.

"We are arranging an urgent meeting with Tata Steel Tubes to demand assurances there will be no compulsory redundancies and to explore all other options available.

"We also want a clear commitment from Tata Steel to the long-term security of the site at Corby."

Midlands TUC support for striking Marmite/Unilever workers on Wednesday

2012-01-24T16:50:00.000Z

The Midlands TUC today (Tuesday) condemned Unilever’s plans to close its final salary pension scheme in support of the Unilever workforce taking industrial action across the UK, including at Marmite in Burton Upon Trent on Thursday.

Unilever, the world’s third largest consumer products company, is proposing to close its final salary scheme which has 5,000 active members and replace it with a career average scheme which will see pension values fall by between 20 and 40 per cent.

Unilver’s CEO Paul Polman is paid 285 times more than the average worker and his pay packet last year included a £900,000 salary, a bonus of £1.45m, as well as £900,000 in free shares and a £300,000 contribution to his pension.

Midlands TUC Regional Secretary, Rob Johnston, commented:

Unilever’s decision to close their pension scheme is a slap in the face to the dedicated workforce that has delivered over £6bn in profits for Unilever.

This battle for decent pensions resonates with the arguments for a more responsible capitalism. How can it be right for a company that is making billions in profit, pays its CEO a small fortune and, at the same time, wrecks the retirement plans of honest, hard working staff who have done nothing more than work tirelessly to make Unilever such a successful company?

The workers at Marmite – and across Unilever - are entitled to a decent, dignified retirement. This industrial action is at the forefront of the battle for fair pensions. What’s more, it shows that the battle for pensions applies equally to the public and private sectors. All workers are entitled to a good pension which is an essential element of a new responsible capitalism that we all know is something that we wish to see.

Unilever should sit down with the unions and negotiate to retain a final salary scheme. The workers have generated huge profits and they are entitled to a fair share of the rewards.

Strike Action this week

2012-01-24T15:57:00.000Z

We have been notified of three disputes resulting in strike action this week. Please send messages of support for these striking comrades as follows: These are:

25th January - Unilever, Burton on Trent, pensions strike
“Unilever can afford to sustain the current pension scheme unchanged due to the profitability of the company.
The Trade Unions are able to put forward constructive alternative proposals on pensions, but these have never been considered by Unilever.
That is why union members are seeking talks with the company possible under the auspices ACAS. The strike action is to secure these talks.”
Burton Factory
Wellington Road,
Burton-on-Trent,
Staffordshire, DE14 2AB
Time:
Commencing at 05:00 hours on Wednesday 25 January, 2012
Concluding at 04:59 hours on Thursday 26 January, 2012
Messages of support for Unilever strikers to : Gerard Coyne, Unite Regional Secretary, gerard.coyne@unitetheunion.com

25th January - Montgomery School, Birmingham, on Academy status
On Wednesday 25 January members at Montgomery Primary School in Sparkbrook, Birmingham are taking strike action against forced conversion to academy status.
As you know, messages of support make a real difference to members in action.
NASUWT members who are teachers at the school will be on the picket line from 8am to approximately 9.15am. Paula Roe, NASUWT Senior Vice-President, and Anne Brimacombe, Birmingham teacher and National Executive Member, will be available for media interviews.
The public meeting will be held at 7.30pm at the Community Hall, Sparkbrook Islamic Centre, Sydenham Road B11 1ND on Thursday 26 January.
‘Messages of support for Montgomery members’ Anne.Brimacombe@mail.nasuwt.org.uk
26th January - Remploy, Chesterfield
The Remploy workers in the Chesterfield factory (and in the Springburn factory in Glasgow) have voted overwhelmingly to take industrial action over the semi privatising of their factories.
A new Company has been formed R Healthcare which is a partnership between Remploy and a firm called Webster’s which is a large private Orthotics firm. Non disabled apprentices have been taken on and also non disabled shop floor workers have also been taken on. These appointments have been made on terms and conditions that are considerably inferior to those we enjoy in Remploy.
The first strike day will take place on the 26th of January starting at 6-00 am in Chesterfield and 7 30 in Springburn.
The site address is:
Remploy Ltd
Sheffield Road Chesterfield S41 8NJ
All Trade Unionists and activists are welcome on the Picket lines
Messages of Support for Remploy workers should be sent to
Kevin Shand GMB Rep in Chesterfield kevin.shand@remploy.co.uk
Phil Brannan GMB Rep in Springburn Philip.brannan@remploy.co.uk
07500975379
James Stribley Regional Consortium member Yorkshire jamesstribleygmbyorkshire@hotmail.co.uk
07525136396For further Information Contact
Les Woodward National Convenor and Trades Council Coordinator
Les.woodward@ntlworld.com
07977436251

Please copy the TUC in to any messages of support at aweaver@tuc.org.uk

Government has shied away from the big decisions needed to reform top pay

2012-01-23T16:46:00.000Z

Brendan Barber

Commenting today (Monday) on the government's proposals to reform executive pay, TUC General Secretary Brendan Barber said:

"Through its many consultations and speeches, the government has made a compelling case for radical reform of executive pay. It's very disappointing then to see that ministers have spectacularly failed to make any significant changes to the status quo.
"Whilst the Business Secretary has announced a few welcome tinkers to the current boardroom pay regime, he has shied away from the big decisions on all of the major proposed reforms, from worker representation to company pay ratios and open advertising for posts on remuneration committees.
"Over-paid and under-performing directors concerned about greater public scrutiny of their pay and bonus arrangements can rest easy tonight.
"Any hopes of reversing the damaging and growing pay divide between top executives and the rest of their workforce have faded after today's announcement."

Birmingham venue attracts fifteen applicants for every job

2012-01-23T15:47:00.000Z

More than 1,500 people have applied for 100 full and part-time jobs in a new hotel, including bar and restaurant work.

Hotel La Tour, which opens its GBP24 million venue in Birmingham at the end of March, is recruiting for roles across all areas of its operations which include a brasserie-style restaurant, bar, coffee shop, and dedicated conference and meetings floor.

Managing Director Jane Schofield, said: "Birmingham has certainly responded well to our recruitment drive. We aim to make great strides in improving the image of careers in hospitality and are offering a great opportunity for people who are as serious as we are about helping set new standards for genuine customer service in the hotel industry."

Meanwhile new research by the GMB union found that almost eight jobseekers were chasing every vacancy in Scotland and the North East last year, the highest ratio in the UK, which had an average figure of 5.2.

In comparison, there were fewer than four people per vacancy in the East of England, South East and South West.

Parts of the UK saw figures well above the national average, with over

21 people in Lewisham, SE London per unfilled vacancy, 19 in Blaenau Gwent, South Wales, 17 in Hackney, London, North Ayrshire and Clackmannashire.

GMB leader Paul Kenny said: "The rise in unemployment since the recovery stalled was made in Downing Street. The truth is that jobs are haemorrhaging in the public and private sectors and no-one in Parliament seems to know what to do or seems to care about the human costs.

"There are 35 areas of the country including major cities like Liverpool, Nottingham, Glasgow and Middlesbrough in such despair that more than a quarter of households with people of working age have no-one in work."

Bectu members rally to protect Birmingham jobs

2012-01-19T16:32:00.000Z

Rob Johnston speaking at today's Bectu rally in Birmingham

Members of Bectu today held a rally at the end of their 24 hour strike to call for the retention of jobs in the second city. members at the rally heard how jobs were being transferred without consultation, leading to over 40% of Bectu members likely to lose their jobs. Midlands TUC Regional Secretary, Rob Johnston, said, "We don't need to have highly skilled jobs exported form the region - particularly not at a time when unemployment is rising and other skilled industries are also feeling the strain of an economy heading for recession".

With many jobs likely to be lost, speakers called for more to be done to save current and future jobs. "We like the programmes we have, including "Doctors" and "The Archers", but if so many jobs are lost to the city, how much longer will these programmes be viable?"

Midlands TUC East Midlands Unemployment reaction

2012-01-18T12:52:00.000Z

Commenting on the latest east midlands unemployment figures published today, (Wednesday), Midlands TUC Regional Secretary Rob Johnston said, “The news that another 7,000 people joined the dole queues in the east midlands over the last three months is truly depressing, and worse than we expected.”
“Unfortunately, unemployment in our region is fast becoming a fact of life. We have called on the government previously to take action on growth and jobs and these figures yet again show the need for bold solutions to put people back to work.”
“The news for those in work isn't great either, with pay growth falling and more people having to move to into part-time and insecure self-employment.”
“We are in the midst of a full blown jobs crisis that is causing misery for 190,000 people and their families in the east midlands and ruining any chance of an economic recovery. Ministers must start putting forward bold solutions to address this crisis, starting with a job guarantee for any young person out of work for six months.”
And the stats:
- Unemployment in the East Midlands increased by 7,000 in the three months to November, official figures have revealed.
- The Office for National Statistics (ONS) showed that a total of 190,000 people were unemployed in the region between September and November.
- The region's unemployment rate was 8.3% and saw a rise of 3.8% during the period.

Midlands TUC West Midlands Unemployment reaction

2012-01-18T12:48:00.000Z

Commenting on the latest west midlands unemployment figures published today, (Wednesday), Midlands TUC Regional Secretary Rob Johnston said, "The news that another 9,000 people joined the dole queues in the west midlands over the last three months is truly depressing, and worse than we expected, with nearly one in ten workers unemployed.”
“Unfortunately, unemployment in our region is fast becoming a fact of life. We have called on the government previously to take action on growth and jobs and these figures yet again show the need for bold solutions to put people back to work.”
“The news for those in work isn't great either, with pay growth falling and more people having to move to into part-time and insecure self-employment.”
“We are in the midst of a full blown jobs crisis that is causing misery for nearly a quarter of a million people and their families in the west midlands and ruining any chance of an economic recovery. Ministers must start putting forward bold solutions to address this crisis, starting with a job guarantee for any young person out of work for six months.”
And the stats:
- Unemployment in the West Midlands increased by 9,000 in the three months to November, official figures have revealed.
- The Office for National Statistics (ONS) showed that a total of 243,000 people were unemployed in the region between September and November.
- The region's unemployment rate was 9.2% and saw a rise of 3.8% during the period.

Unemployment rising by 1,300 a day

2012-01-18T10:45:00.000Z

Responding to the latest unemployment figures published today (Wednesday), Midlands TUC Regional Secretary Rob Johnston (above) said: "These figures are even worse than the bleak economic forecasts predicted, with new records achieved for youth and female unemployment.
"The fear is now that mass joblessness becomes a permanent scar on the UK - with unemployment rising by 1,300 a day towards the end of last year.
"The news for those in work isn't great either, with pay growth falling and more people having to move to into part-time and insecure self-employment.
"We are in the midst of a full blown jobs crisis that is causing misery for millions and ruining any chance of an economic recovery. Ministers must start putting forward bold solutions to address this crisis, starting with a job guarantee for any young person out of work for six months."

24-hour strike at BBC Birmingham insists network production must remain in the city

2012-01-16T14:29:00.000Z

BBC staff in Birmingham will strike for 24 hours this week (18/19 January) in protest at management plans to move almost all network production for radio and TV away from the city.

Strike action by BECTU members will start at 15.30 on Wednesday 18 January and will run through to 15.30 on Thursday 19 January. A public rally will take place in Victoria Square at 2pm on Thursday 19 January.

BECTU insists that plans to move production of network TV content such as Countryfile, Coast and Hairy Bikers to Bristol make no creative or financial sense. The BBC’s base in Birmingham, The Mailbox, has cutting edge facilities and cost effective work practices and yet the BBC is walking away from its strong reputation for quality programming robbing England’s second city of capacity and talent.

The union also points out that no money will be saved by the plans: on top of staff redundancy or relocation costs, new production facilities would have to be built in Bristol.

BBC managers also want to relocate some production for Radio 2 and Radio 4, either to Salford or Bristol; currently, programmes such as Farming Today and The Food Programme are made in Birmingham. Union members believe that it is not value for money or sustainable to mothball the radio drama studio except for those days during the month when The Archers is recorded.

Birmingham will be a media ghost town

Commenting on the proposals, BECTU national official, Anna Murray, said:

“These plans make no sense whatsoever; no money will be saved and production capacity and talent for the Midlands will be lost.

“The regional economy will be dealt a body blow and the aspirations of those wanting to enter the industry will be dashed.

“The BBC is on track to turn Birmingham into a ghost town from the media production point of view and we’ll do everything we can, helped by others, to stop that happening.”

The plans were announced last October as part of the corporation’s controversial cost-cutting strategy Delivering Quality First which seeks to cut the BBC’s budget by 20% by 2017 and cut 2000 jobs.

BECTU members voted overwhelmingly earlier this month for strike action in protest at the plans and at the BBC’s refusal to hold meaningful talks with union representatives or to listen to staff views.

The BBC insists that programmes will start moving in August 2012. Staff concerns, including about relocation and the impact on families, are being overlooked.

"It is unfair that staff have only a few weeks to decide whether to relocate, especially as the BBC will not say what will fill vacant space at the Mailbox if these programmes go," Anna Murray continued.

BECTU believes that the proposals are seriously flawed and that the BBC must immediately enter into meaningful consultation with staff and the public. Director- general Mark Thompson has yet to meet with staff or Birmingham MPs on the issues.

If these plans do proceed not only will a substantial production slate be lost to Birmingham but BECTU believes other output in Birmingham will be so isolated that it too will be vulnerable. BBC Birmingham output includes the regional TV news service, Midlands Today, radio services for the West Midlands, The Archers, and the Asian Network.

More background information can be found here: http://www.bectu.org.uk/news/1425

Derbyshire Asbestos Support Team - Illumination of Derby Cathederal

2012-01-16T11:05:00.000Z

Derbyshire Asbestos Support Team would like to extend an open invitation to an event to reflect on the lives of all thse in Derby and the East Midlands who have lost their lives to Mesothelioma, at the same time rasising awareness to th dangers of exposure to asbestos.

On Wednesday 29th February at 7.00 pm, DAST will illuminate Derby Cathederal with the names of 100 people in Derby and the East Midlands who have tragically lost theri lives to the dreadful asbestos related cancer - Mesothelioma.

Following the illumination of the Cathederal supporters will move inside the building for short speecghes and rememberance prayers with a local industrial chaplain, followed by a buffet.

Further details from Joanne Gordon: mail@asbestossupport.co.uk

Trade union bashing bill routed

2012-01-12T13:12:00.000Z

MPs decisively defeat "Smokescreen" bill to curb work of union movement's "unsung heroes"

Right wing moves to push for reduced facilities for trade union representatives fell at the first hurdle on Wednesday.

MPs defeated legislation introduced by Tory MP Jesse Norman, with at least 174 of his own party colleagues failing to support him.

His Trade Union Officials (Refund of Pay to Employers) Bill was triggered by a campaign by the right wing TaxPayers’ Alliance (TPA).

It said: “Pay for hours worked on behalf of trade unions by trade union officials during hours when they are paid by an employer should be refunded to the employer buy the trade union.”

The Hereford and South Herefordshire MP told the Commons that his Bill was “not about attacking the unions” – inspiring loud jeers from the Labour benches.

He claimed it was a matter of principle, as private organisations should not be subsidised by the state.

“Taxpayers’ money should be spent as far as possible on the frontline of public services.”

Norman relied on the TPA for his claim that 2,840 officials worked for unions when they were paid by the state, with the practice costing £113 million a year.

However former Labour minister and shadow health secretary John Healey hit back, saying the union officials helped improve health and safety and prevented staff taking time off ill and so ultimately saved the state money.

He said he was surprised Norman was bringing the Bill in, as he had a reputation for hard work and intelligent comment.

“But this was a cheap shot speech based on ignorance, ideology and inaccurate briefings by the TaxPayers’ Alliance,” Healey told MPs.

The proposed legislation targeted “the most basic, most benign feature of union work, the day-to-day support for staff at work, by their colleagues who are prepared to volunteer as trade union representatives”.

It was a personal attack on around 200,000 people who were ready to help their colleagues through giving advice, supporting them in grievance procedures and negotiating with employers, which was difficult and demanding work.

Healey said they were unsung heroes, who deserved recognition in the New Years Honours list, and Downing Street receptions for upholding the proud British tradition of volunteering.

“They are the workplace wing of the Prime Minister’s Big Society,” he added.

“Many trade unionists voted Conservative at the last election, too many, and some even voted Liberal Democrat.

“They do not deserve this, and the Bill does not deserve support from any part of this House.”

And Norman failed to muster much support, with his bill attracting just 132 votes and losing by a majority of 79.

Unite General Secretary Len McCluskey had said before the vote that former Barclays investment banker Norman had got his priorities wrong.

“He would be far better off using his taxpayer-funded salary to campaign for an end to the greed and excess in his former profession rather than targeting workers’ access to fairness in the workplace.

“There is no rational reason to target dedicated men and women who spend their days preventing accidents, avoiding tribunals and supporting their colleagues.

“Union representatives benefit workplaces to the tune of £1.1 billion every year. Only the ideologically-driven cannot accept that these arrangements benefit staff and employers alike. Even Jesse Norman’s former employer, Barclays funds its union reps because it understands the benefits they provide to that business.”

RMT General Secretary Bob Crow vowed to fight to defend union rights, noting that responsible employers knew the value of proper facilities and agreements to allow reps to carry out their duties.

The TPA had before the vote linked the alleged subsidy with attempts by unions to “stop necessary restraint in public spending”.

It said after the defeat that it would continue to press ministers to take action, so attention will now switch to whether the coalition brings in legislation.

by Matthew George - 12th January 2012, 7.00 GMT

Reprinted by kind permission of UnionNews
http://union-news.co.uk/2012/01/trade-union-bashing-bill-routed/

Midlands TUC welcomes announcement in favour of HS2

2012-01-10T10:18:00.000Z

The Midlands TUC today (Tuesday) welcomed the governments long awaited confirmation that the HS2 link from London to Birmingham will be built.

Commenting on the decision, Midlands TUC Regional Secretary Rob Johnston said, “HS2 will prove to be a huge boost the midlands economy. This is about investment in the future and shows the importance of government action to support regional economies.”

“We all know the midlands economy has been struggling, investments such as HS2 are essential if we are to rebuild and revitalise our region’s industrial and manufacturing sectors.”

“This is good for jobs, good for business and good for growth.”

“But thousands of jobs in rail construction, renewals and maintenance are currently under threat from Sir Roy McNulty’s proposals to cut staffing across the rail industry. If ministers are serious about delivering the rail infrastructure of the future, they must defend the jobs of these skilled and experienced workers who will be essential if HS2 is to become a reality.

“With government and cross party support secured, HS2 must be built in a way that maximises jobs and apprenticeships and delivers real benefits to passengers, communities and the environment.”

Congratulations to Steve Murphy, new UCATT General Secretary

2012-01-09T11:56:00.000Z

Many congratulations to former Ucatt Midlands Regional Secretary Steve Murphy (above) on his election to the post of General Secretary of his union.

Steve is a former member of the Midlands TUC Regional Council and Executive and we wish him every success in his new role.

Midlands TUC Poll on prospects for the economy

2012-01-06T11:52:00.000Z

We are running a poll on what you think will happen to the Midlands economy in the coming year. Visit our blog to register your vote.

TUC dismisses Downing Street health and safety claims

2012-01-05T14:04:00.000Z

Dismissing Downing Street claims today (Thursday) that UK businesses are in a "stranglehold" of health and safety 'red tape' and compensation claims, Midlands TUC Regional Secretary Rob Johnston said: "This shows just how out of touch with the reality of working life Number 10 is. Every government report on the UK's supposed compensation culture has shown it to be a myth, and in fact claims have been declining over the past decade. Despite this the government seems hell-bent on trying to stop workers injured by their employers' negligence being able to claim compensation.
"Workers will be astonished by the claim that there is an "excessive health and safety culture that has become an albatross around the neck of British businesses". The truth is that there are two million people in the UK who have an illness or injury caused by their work - the vast majority of which could have been prevented had their employer had taken the correct safety precautions.
"Nor do businesses "battle against a tide of risk assessment forms every year". The vast majority of employers never carry out any kind of written risk assessments, and for those that do, there is easy-to-understand advice available from the Health and Safety Executive on how to do them.
"It is clear that Downing Street does not have a clue about what life is like for the millions of ordinary people who work in shops, offices, schools, factories, call centres and other workplaces across the UK. Instead it is making policy in response to grumbles from elements of the small business lobby and the risible rantings of right-wing commentators."

Derby Peoples’ History Group Meeting

2012-01-05T11:07:00.002Z

Derby Peoples’ History Group Meeting

Thursday 19th January 2012 at 7.30pm Friends Meeting House, Derby DE1 3GY

Alice Wheeldon and her family stood for women’s rights and workers’ rights and opposed the conscription of conscientious objectors in Derby. For this, they were falsely accused, tried and imprisoned during the First World War. Nick Hiley will be returning to Derby to discuss his research into the case of Alice Wheeldon.

Chair: Cheryl Pidgeon

All are welcome. For more information contact derbypeoplesh@yahoo.co.uk:

1 in 5 workers in West Mids work unpaid overtime

2012-01-05T00:01:00.002Z

The two billion hours of unpaid overtime worked last year would be enough to create over a million extra full-time jobs, the TUC says today (Thursday) as it announces the date for Work Your Proper Hours Day 2012.

The total amount of unpaid overtime worked last year was 1,968 million hours – worth a record £29.2 billion to the UK economy – and roughly equivalent to a million extra full-time jobs.

- 406,000 people across the West Midlands did unpaid overtime last year, up 56,000 on the year before – the sharpest increase in the UK
- Around one in five workers in the West Midlands regularly work unpaid overtime
Last year, workers across the West Midlands put in 175 million hours of unpaid overtime, worth £5,800 a year per person, or £2.4bn to the regional economy
- The amount unpaid overtime worked by employees in the West Midlands is equivalent to 91,000 full-time jobs

If workers who regularly put in unpaid overtime worked all their hours from the start of the year, the first day they would get paid would be Friday 24 February. The TUC has named this Work Your Hour Proper Hours Day (WYPHD) in their honour.

Now in its eighth year, WYPHD is a light-hearted campaign that celebrates the unsung – and unpaid – extra hours that millions of workers put in to help their employers and which gives a huge boost to the UK economy.

In the run-up to WYPHD 2012 the TUC will publish information and advice for staff and their bosses to try and cut out these unpaid hours at work. The TUC will call on employers to mark Work Yours Proper Hours Day by thanking staff for the extra hours they’re putting in.

The TUC analysis of official figures shows that 5.3 million workers put in an average of 7.2 hours of unpaid overtime per week last year, worth around £5,300 a year per person.

Whilst reducing the amount of unpaid overtime would not translate precisely into extra jobs – particularly as a lot of these hours are a result of a British work culture of pointless presenteeism – the TUC is concerned that persistent and excessive hours of unpaid overtime are holding back job creation.

Some employers are forcing staff to work extremely long hours that damage their health, when taking on extra employees would be far more productive and provide much needed jobs, says the TUC.

Workers in London (26.9 per cent) and the South East (25 per cent) are still the most likely to work unpaid overtime. Workers in the West Midlands (up 3 per cent) and the North East (up 2.2 per cent) have experienced the sharpest rise in the likelihood of working unpaid overtime over the last year, according to the TUC analysis.

The number of workers doing unpaid overtime has increased by more than a million since records began in 1992, when 4.2 million people regularly did unpaid overtime, to 5.3 million people in 2011. The proportion of workers doing unpaid overtime has also increased slightly, from 19.7 per cent in 1992 to 21.1 per cent in 2011.

Midlands TUC Regional Secretary Rob Johnston said: “The heroic amount of extra unpaid hours put in by millions of workers make a vital – but often unsung – contribution to the UK economy.

“While many politicians and financial institutions have spectacularly failed to do their bit to help the UK economy, millions of hard-working staff clearly have and we hope employers congratulate them for their efforts on Work Your Proper Hours Day this year.

“But while many of the extra unpaid hours worked could easily be reduced by changing work practices and ending the UK’s culture of pointless presenteeism, a small number of employers are exploiting staff by regularly forcing them to do excessive amounts of extra work for no extra pay.

“This attitude is not only bad for workers’ health, it’s bad for the economy too as it reduces productivity and holds back job creation.

“No-one wants to see us to become a nation of clock-watchers. But a more sensible and grown up attitude to working time could cut out needless unpaid hours and help more people into work.”

NOTES :
- The two billion hours of unpaid overtime is calculated by multiplying 5.2 million employees doing unpaid overtime x 7.2 hours per week x 52 weeks = 1,968 million hours of unpaid overtime per year. The equivalent figure of one million jobs is calculated by multiplying 1 million employees x 37 hours per week x 52 weeks = 1,924 million hours.
- Further information about Work Your Proper Hours Day is available at www.workyourproperhoursday.com

The Real "Iron Ladies"

2012-01-04T14:33:00.000Z

At 12.30 pm on Friday 6^th January a banner will be unfurled outside the Cineworld Cinema in Chesterfield. The banner reads ‘The Real Iron Ladies’ Women’s Action Group Miners Strike 1984/85.

Friday lunchtime marks the first showing in Chesterfield of the film about Margaret Thatcher ‘The Iron Lady’ starring Meryl Streep which premiered in London this week.

A group of veterans of the Women’s Action Groups and their supporters will make their protest against the Hollywood rewriting of history.

‘The film suggests that Thatcher stood up bravely against a male establishment and was a women’s champion’ said Toni Bennett who was an organiser with the Bolsover Women’s Action Group during the strike. ‘Nothing could be further from the truth. Thatcher mobilised every arm of the state against striking miners and coalfield women who were defending their jobs, their children’s futures and their communities.’

The Women and their supporters contend that the real ‘Iron Ladies’ are the women of the coalfields who defied Thatcher’s Government for a whole year during the 84/85 strike.

‘If you look around you today with high fuel prices, the banking crisis and mass unemployment people need to remember it was the government serving under Prime Minister Thatcher who sold off our gas and electricity industries, deregulated the banks and destroyed our manufacturing base’ Toni Bennett went on to say. ‘Anyone watching this film needs to be able to distinguish the facts from the fiction. If your children cannot find work today, and there are 1 million out there, then remember what Margaret Thatcher did to smash our industries during the 1980’s. ‘

The real ‘iron ladies’ will be organising a meeting in Chesterfield later this month to bring together whose who were involved in the strike and the battles of the 80’s with a view to sharing their experience with those working to defend rights today.

Contact: Colin Hampton

Contact Tel: 07870 387999

Contact email: colin.hampton@duwc.org.uk

What do you know about Vulnerable Employment?

2011-12-23T12:15:00.000Z

Are you employed in a workplace where there are vulnerable workers? If so, your knowledge could help us in developing strategies to help us reach out to those suffering in the economy.
The TUC Education service is encouraging trade union education tutors across the country to adjust course content to include developing union strategies for vulnerable workers; that is working people who are in ‘precarious work that places people at risk of continuing poverty and injustice resulting from an imbalance of power in the employer-worker relationship’
Guidance to tutors attempts to build on the work of the TUC Commission on Vulnerable Employment has recently been circulated in the TUC Education document ‘Learning about vulnerable workers (TUC 2011). It is supported by the recent work of Chris F Wright, a research fellow in the Faculty of Economics at the University of Cambridge.
Chris’s paper 'What role for trade unions in future workplace relations' is part of a series of discussion documents produced by ACAS and can be found at:
http://www.acas.org.uk/index.aspx?articleid=3544
Anyone interested in UK employment relations should work through this ACAS series but the overview that Chris Wright gives will be particularly useful in helping union reps see more clearly what is going on in industrial relations and where their work fits in.

If you can help, post a comment or email midlands@tuc.org.uk

Latest Midlands TUC newsletter

2011-12-23T10:33:00.000Z

We have just published our latest newsletter, this one highlights the steps you need to take to apply for a trade union education course in the Midlands. So, if you are thinking of applying for a course read the newsletter and get that application off in good time. The newsletter can be seen on the main TUC website here: http://www.tuc.org.uk/the_tuc/tuc-20436-f0.cfm?regional=6

Nearly 18,000 people set to spend their second successive Christmas on the dole in the east midlands

2011-12-21T00:05:00.001Z

The number of dole claimants who have been out of work in the east midlands for at least a year has increased by 500 since last year. Nationally, over a quarter of a million people are set to spend their second successive Christmas on the dole, according to a new TUC analysis of official statistics published today (Wednesday).

The number of long-term dole claimants over the Christmas period has more than doubled from 7,600 in 2007 to 17,535 today. Last Christmas, 17,035 people had been out of work for at least a year in the east midlands.

The TUC analysis shows that rising long-term unemployment is a problem throughout the country. In the last Christmas before the recession, 29 local authorities had at least 1,000 people claiming Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA) for at least a year. The figure has risen to 105 local authorities this Christmas. Eight of the nine local authorities in the east midlands now have over 1,000 long-term dole claimants.

The number of people spending their third successive Christmas on the dole across the UK has also increased by a third on last year, with 75,000 people currently on JSA for at least two years.

The TUC is particularly concerned about rising long-term unemployment as it can permanently scar people’s career prospects and negatively affect their health. It believes that the government should prioritise providing tailored and well-funded support to help people back into training and work, rather than simply branding them as scroungers.

With unemployment rising and wages having fallen in real terms throughout the year, it’s not just those surviving on unemployment benefit who are set to face a touch Christmas this year, says the TUC. Millions of working families surviving on low wages are also set for a tough time.

The TUC is calling on employers to do their bit to end the poverty pay that contributes to over two million children in working households living in poverty, and for the government to prioritise tackling the UK’s jobs crisis.

Falling living standards has been the main cause of the flatlining of economic growth this year, says the TUC, and the government’s austerity measures are playing a key part in tightening this squeeze.

Wage-led growth, fuelled by decent pay rises and new high quality jobs, is the only way to achieve a sustainable economic recovery and the government must make this its top priority in the new year, says the TUC.

Midlands TUC Regional Secretary Rob Johnston said: “As people gear up for the festive break, there won’t be much cheer for the 18,000 east midlands residents who are spending their second successive Christmas on the dole.

“The shocking rise in long-term unemployment is not just a personal tragedy for the families and friends of those unable to find jobs, it can affect entire communities and carries a huge economic cost.

“What’s most concerning is that as the dole queues mount, the government’s response has been to brand many of those struggling for work as scroungers.

“The TUC is calling on ministers to make a fresh start in 2012 and focus on tackling our mounting jobs crisis. The UK – one of the richest countries on the world – must not have the shame of millions of its own citizens facing poverty at Christmas with little or no pay.”

Nearly 34,000 people set to spend their second successive Christmas on the dole in the west midlands

2011-12-21T00:03:00.001Z

The number of dole claimants who have been out of work for at least a year has increased by 2,700 since last year. Nationally, over a quarter of a million people are set to spend their second successive Christmas on the dole, according to a new TUC analysis of official statistics published today (Wednesday).

The number of long-term dole claimants over the Christmas period has nearly doubled from 18,660 in 2007 to 33,940 today. Last Christmas, 33,940 people had been out of work for at least a year in the west midlands.

The TUC analysis shows that rising long-term unemployment is a problem throughout the country. In the last Christmas before the recession, 29 local authorities had at least 1,000 people claiming Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA) for at least a year. This figure rose to 88 local authorities last year and now 105 local authorities have over 1,000 long-term dole claimants, including 14 who have at least 3,000 people who been claiming JSA for at least a year.

The number of people spending their third successive Christmas on the dole has also increased by a third on last year, with 75,000 people currently on JSA for at least two years.

Midlands TUC Regional Secretary Rob Johnston said: “As people gear up for the festive break, there won’t be much cheer for the 34,000 west midlands residents who are spending their second successive Christmas on the dole.

“What’s most concerning is that as the dole queues mount, the government’s response has been to brand many of those struggling for work as scroungers.

The full TUC data analysis is available at www.tuc.org.uk/christmasonthedole2011

Statement after TUC PSLG meeting

2011-12-20T11:12:00.000Z

TUC General Secretary, Brendan Barber

Speaking after a meeting of public sector unions at the TUC yesterday (Monday), TUC General Secretary Brendan Barber said:

'Since the day of action we have seen a new atmosphere in the negotiations. The state of play varies between sectors.

'Progress has been made in health and local government where key principles for further negotiation in heads of agreement will provide the basis for further talks in the New Year.

'It's important to stress that no agreements have been reached, but unions now have proposals to put to their executives and members.

'We have reached a stage where the emphasis in most cases is in giving active consideration to the new proposals that have emerged rather than considering the prospect of further industrial action.

'We have been talking for many months but since the day of action that involved millions and with the intensive discussions over recent days we now see change. Accrual rates are more favourable then were originally proposed, there is enhanced protection for those nearing retirement, Fair Deal protection for those whose jobs transfer out of the public sector and there will be no adverse changes to pensions for 25 years.'

Health pensions - UNISON response

2011-12-19T16:43:00.000Z

UNISON, the UK’s largest public sector union, confirmed today that it has received a final offer from the government on NHS pensions, and agreed to take it back to its Health Service Executive.
Under the proposals, those less than ten years away from retirement would not face any change to their pension, and those earning less than £26,000 would be protected from an increase in contributions next year.
Also included is a pledge to consult over the impact of these changes on staff in the emergency services - including paramedics - as well as a commitment to Fair Deal. This allows those transferred out of the public sector to retain their right to stay in the pension scheme. The proposals are for a career average pension scheme, with an improved accrual rate.
The union will now take the details of the proposed scheme back to its membership-led health committee, who are due to meet on 10 January. The committee will then decide on whether to accept, reject, or formally consult NHS members on the proposals.

Christina McAnea, UNISON Head of Health, said:
"This is the government’s final offer. On some issues - such as contribution rates for the low paid next year, and for people close to retirement - we have made progress.
"On others, we always knew this would be a damage limitation exercise – aimed at reducing the worst impacts of the government’s pension changes.
"We’ve always believed public sector workers deserve decent pensions, and our members have shown they are willing to take action to defend these.

Public sector losing jobs 12 times faster than private sector can create them

2011-12-15T12:36:00.000Z

Rob Johnston

Responding to the latest unemployment figures Midlands TUC Regional Secretary Rob Johnston said:
"No amount of spin can put a gloss on these terrible figures. Worryingly the latest rise in job losses looks less like a bad blip and more like a trend of entrenched high unemployment, with new records being set each month for the number of women and young people out of work.

"Ministers will desperately attempt to the lay the blame on the Eurozone but it is the UK government alone that is responsible for the huge cull of public sector employment. There are now 12 public sector workers losing their jobs for every new post which is created in the private sector.

"Rather than picking a fight with itself over Europe, the government must urgently turn its attention to the jobs crisis and invest in employment schemes to get people back into work and stave off the risk of mass long-term unemployment."

TUC welcomes benefits uprating

2011-12-13T10:19:00.000Z

Commenting on the announcement today (Monday) that benefits will be uprated in line with inflation from April 2012, Midlands TUC Regional Secretary Robert Johnston said:

"After previous suggestions that benefits might not be uprated in line with inflation, today's announcement that April's uprating will be inflation-linked is welcome news.

"The government has already reduced the value of benefits by moving from the RPI to the lower CPI measure of inflation, and by introducing many benefit cuts for both working and out of work families. It is the least they can do for the millions of households facing unemployment this Christmas to guarantee that their benefits will rise by the CPI rate in the new year."

Touchstone Economic Dashboard: Charting a way to recovery

2011-12-13T09:35:00.002Z

The TUC, through the Touchstone blog have just launched a new 'Economic Dashboard' that enables you to quikly see the key economic trends since the financial crash of 2008.

The charts will be updated every month so do keep an eye out on the trends.

The Dashboard is also embeded on the side bar of this blog so you can see it there easily although its a little small. For the full picture do visit the full Economics Dashboard on Toucshone

Manufacturing boost for Derbyshire/Staffordshrie

2011-12-07T12:38:00.004Z

It has been great to learn of the recent manufacturing boost in Derbyshire/Staffordshire. The new jobs clearly shows that, with investment and support, the Midlands’ manufacturing sector can be the engine of growth that we all so desperately want to see.

JCBJCB have today announced that they will create around 350 jobs. The first 50 jobs will be in Foston Derbyshire with a further 300 jobs to be created over the next few years at the various plants across Staffordshire. The £31 million investment in JCB’s future was made possible through £4.5 million investment from the Regional Growth Fund.
ToyotaFollowing a £100million investment Toyota will be creating 1,500 posts at Burnaston over the next two years.

Nestlé

Nestlé is investing £110 million into its coffee factory in Hatton. It is anticipated that this investment will create 300 skilled jobs, increasing the workforce from 500 to 800 and establishing Nestlé ‘s wn training academy.

Rolls-Royce It has also been reported that Rolls-Royce have increased their Derby workforce by 800. Around 50% of these are new jobs with the other half involving relocations from other Rolls-Royce plants around the UK. A number of these new jobs include graduate and apprenticeships.
Rolls-Royce’s order book has more than doubled since 2006 and currently stands at more than £50bn with more than 2,400 firm orders for the Trent engines that are designed and built in Derby.

The Regional Growth Fund has shown what can be done with Government support for manufacturing. We all know that our economy needs better paying, quality jobs and that we need to increase our manufacturing base. We need the Government to learn the lessons of Derby to ensure that we see a continued investment in our region and ongoing support for our manufacturing sector

The recent successes of course are clouded by the Government’s disastrous handling of the Bombardier Thameslink contract. If the Government would only climb down over Thameslink and also ensure that Bombardier is granted the E-Voyager and Southern contracts then we can all celebrate the areas recent manufacturing upturn.

Investment in manufacturing is crucial if we are to see the return of growth. We have already seen what impact the Regional Growth Fund can have. Government support can, and does, lever in private sector investment. Now is the time for the Government to step up to the plate and deliver the long overdue, serious, sustained and significant investment in manufacturing that we need to see to secure growth and a sustainable, re-balanced economy.

Pensions Justice Birmingham Rally

2011-12-01T12:20:00.022Z

Brendan Barber speaking at the NIA

On November 30th, for the TUC's 'Day of Action', thousands of public service workers piled into Birmingham's National Indoor Arena for a rally addressed by both striking public service workers and union leaders all campaigning for Pensions Justice.

TUC General Secretary Brendan Barber, said "We are right to take a stand. Our campaign will go on until we have justice for every public servant."
"We found out yesterday that the government is to step up the attacks on public sector staff with a continuing pay cap and pay variation at a local level."

"This is on top of an increase in the state pension age for anyone under 40 – a toxic triple that will do nothing to get the economy moving again, but will simply hit consumer confidence."

Tony Woodley from UNITE said "We are speaking for the victims of global capitalism. It is the bankers who got us into this, but the pigs are still feeding in the trough."
UNISON General Secretary, Dave Prentis, said "We say to bankers: ‘You caused this crisis and you pay for it. You should clear up this mess’."

Suzanne Rule, a newly qualified teacher from Rugby, NASUWT member and first time striker said "I am 25 and I live at home with my parents. I love them but I want to start my life. Paying more towards my pension and dealing with a pay freeze means that I and all teachers will be taking a hefty pay cut."

Lee Charlton a refuse collector at Birmingham City Council and UNITE member told the rally how the Government's raid on his pension would represent the third, real terms pay cut he will have suffered in the last couple of years

Before the rally Brendan Barber joined picket lines at Handsworth Library and at Birmingham City Hospital where he met with members from many unions, many taking industrial action for the first time.

Prior to the TUC Pensions Justice rally at the NIA, thousands of public service workers took part in a joint public services trade union march through Birmingham city centre.

Nottingham Pensions Justice day of action

2011-11-30T22:10:00.000Z

Thousands of Nottinghamshire trade unionists marched through the streets of Nottingham today as part of the TUC national day of action for Pensions Justice. The march from the Forest Recreation Ground took thirty minutes to leave the assembly area before progressing to The Albert Hall for a series of speeches from both local and national speakers.
The rally was chaired by Adrian Axtell, Vice Chair of the Midlands TUC. Speakers included Heather Wakefield, National Secretary for UNISON, Keith Stokold, National Treasurer for NAPO and NASUWT Junior Vice President Mick Lyons.
Perhaps the most telling contribution was from Grace Perry, a Community Care officer from Nottinghamshire County Council who explained in detail how she would lose out in the proposed changes to her pension scheme.
The speeches were relayed outside the Albert Hall to a thousand members who watched proceedings on a large video screen while enjoying the late autumn sunshine.

Mary's Story - a Pension's tale

2011-11-28T10:04:00.000Z

UNISON west midlands region have produced a striking new video on pensions in the health service. A must watch.

Sickness review could force ill workers back too soon, says TUC

2011-11-21T15:37:00.000Z

Commenting on the review of sickness absence carried out by Dame Carol Black and David Frost published today (Monday), Midlands TUC Regional Secretary Rob Johnston said: "The current method of sickness absence certification and pay is not in need of a major overhaul. Unions are concerned that however well-intended this report, there is a danger it will be seized upon by some rogue employers as an excuse to force people back to work before they are good and ready.
"The report, while very limited in its remit, recognises that the current sick pay scheme is broadly fit for purpose, but makes a number of recommendations in respect of job-brokering and an independent assessment system which could be used to force sick and injured employees back to work far sooner than is good for their health.
"While employers need more advice and support in dealing with sickness absence, the biggest gains can be made by supporting workers through early access to rehabilitation, as well as increasing prevention measures to stop them becoming ill or injured in the first place.
"Unfortunately, because of the narrow remit that the government gave to the review, these issues are not covered. Instead employers could attempt to use the proposals to challenge the advice from a GP or seek to move someone who has become disabled to another job rather than make adjustments to keep them in their existing one.
"The report also fails to address the huge issue of "presenteeism" where workers come in to work when they should be off sick, despite evidence that this is a major and growing problem in the workplace."
The report comes a week after a research report in the USA showed that the absence of sick pay cost the US economy over $1 billion a year. http://www.iwpr.org/carousel/access-to-paid-sick-days-could-save-1-billion

Singing out loud for public services

2011-11-21T00:05:00.001Z

Ahead of the Day of Action on 30 November, the TUC has brought together a group of public sector staff as The Workers to re-record the classic song Let’s Work Together as a charity track that celebrates everything that is good about the public sector and raises money for today’s pensioners.

The song will be launched on Monday 21 November to chart on Sunday 27 November – the week of the TUC Day of Action.

The Workers are 14-strong and include a firefighter, probation officers, a teacher, civil servant, social worker, student support officer and health service staff including a nurse, midwives, a physiotherapist and a clinical engineer.

The aim of the song is to get people talking about the importance of the public sector and its staff in a week when the government wants to focus on union bashing.

The single will also raise money for charity. A major part of the sale price, equivalent to about 40p out of the 99p cost in most outlets, will be donated by the TUC to Age UK to show support for today’s pensioners.

Let’s Work Together will be available to download from 2pm on Sunday 20 November on itunes, amazon and other major online retail outlets. Further information about the band and how to buy the single is available at www.theworkers.org.uk

Observer 20th Nov: EDL splinter groups may target public sector strikers, unions warn

2011-11-20T11:05:00.004Z

Britain's biggest unions are warning of a threat of violence by far-right groups during national strike action this month, amid concern that fascist elements are increasingly intent on targeting striking public sector workers.

UNITE, UNISON and the TUC said they were taking the prospect of disruption by far-right supporters seriously, and had begun to liaise with police to assess any risk to pickets or those on protest marches. The development follows signs that splinter groups from the English Defence League are broadening their campaign from targeting Muslims to trade unionists and socialist organisations. Members of the EDL have recently been involved in attacks on anti-racist and anti-cuts protesters, as well as attempting to target the Occupy movement which has camped outside St Paul's Cathedral.

More than two million workers are expected to walk out on 30 November during a day of protest against public sector pension changes.

Dave Prentis, general secretary of Unison, the country's main public sector trade union, said: "We take any threat to our members' health and safety very seriously. As a matter of course, ahead of a major day of action, we work with the police to assess risks, and our many stewards work hard to keep people safe. The far right's latest attempt to stir up hate and fear is a disgrace."

Rob Johnston, the Midlands regional secretary for the TUC, said: "There is a concern, a general wariness, that the EDL are very active. There have been attacks on trade unionists. We need to put our heads together and think about how we deal with it."

Nine days ago an EDL faction attempted to attack the north-west headquarters of Unite, the UK's biggest trade union. Online messages from the EDL in Merseyside stated they were "patrolling for leftys [sic]". Those they finally identified turned out to be former council workers protesting after they lost their jobs when a contractor went bust. A march of female asylum seekers has also been recently targeted by EDL supporters in the city.

One EDL splinter group, the Infidels, has stated that it considers any leftwing or anti-cuts activists fair game. A north-east wing of the Infidels was recently blamed for attacking an Occupy Newcastle camp in which one protester was taken to hospital and others injured. A statement from the leader of the Infidels faction, John "Snowy" Shaw, states: "We have decided to put all our efforts into opposing everything you do regardless of the issue at hand, it's your organisations we oppose." He adds: "Every event you hold will be a potential target along with your meetings, fund raisers and social events."

On the same day as the Liverpool attack, police arrested 179 EDL members after intelligence they were planning to attack Occupy protesters camped outside St Paul's Cathedral. A Facebook page carried comments discussing attacking "lefties" at St Paul's and included death threats from one supporter.

Dr Matthew Goodwin, extremism expert and political lecturer at the University of Nottingham, said the far right in the UK was becoming increasingly confrontational. "Historically, trade unionists and the far right have been fiercely opposed to one another," he said. "Trade unionists view the modern far right as a continuation of interwar fascism, and so support anti-fascist campaigns and groups. Meanwhile, far-right extremists tend to view trade unionists as promoting multiculturalism and political correctness. While these disputes are ideological, they have often become incredibly personal.

"Over the past three years, the far right in Britain has become increasingly confrontational and provocative."

Bill Adams, TUC regional secretary of Yorkshire, said he was aware of a new far-right presence in his region – 300 members of the North East Infidels recently protested in Leeds city centre – and had been advised by police to avoid antagonising the far right. "They have said to watch what I say about the EDL, they have some info that they have my details." Last year prominent TUC member Alec McFadden was placed under police protection after threats from the Merseyside branch of the EDL who doctored a placard he was carrying criticising coalition cuts to make it read as if it were protesting against homecoming British troops.

Unite general secretary Len McCluskey said the union movement would not be cowed by a group whose only concern was "spreading fear" instead of advancing the rights of working people. "Trade unionists stand against everything the EDL stands for," he said. "Trade unionists have fought long and hard for a fairer society, one with respect at its core. Ultra-rightwing groups care about nothing other than stoking hatred, which is why they have no place in our communities."

Other incidents this year that suggest that the EDL and its spin-offs are adopting an increasingly anti-leftwing agenda include attacks at anti-racist meetings in Brighton and Leeds and during a Labour party event held in Barking, east London, in May.

2011-11-20T00:01:00.000Z

The TUC is calling for an end to violence and discrimination against transgender people on Transgender Day of Remembrance today (Sunday).

Around the world 20 November each year is recognised as Transgender Day of Remembrance. The Day commemorates trans people who have been the victims of violent crimes and aims to bring their stories to public attention.

This year sees the 13th international global day of tribute, and new names are still being added to the list of trans people who have been murdered simply because they were different. In Britain last year, there were 357 trans victims of hate crime reported - a rise of 14 per cent on 2009.

Midlands TUC Regional Secretary Rob Johnston said: 'The profile of trans people is improving with sympathetic coverage on mainstream television, and the government appears to be committed to challenging the prejudice and discrimination they face.

'But the level of violence faced by trans people - and the reported crimes could be only the tip of the iceberg - represents an appalling percentage of a very small community.

'Prejudice against trans people remains deep, as it does for lesbian, gay and bisexual people, and public spending cuts could severely impact on the ability of authorities to identify and tackle such crimes.'

Pensions Justice Action Saturday - November 19th

2011-11-19T18:07:00.004Z

Trade Unions across the Midlands were out in force on Action Saturday, 19^th November.

(Pictured: Joe Morgan, GMB Birmingham and West Midlands Regional Secretary with Gerard Coyne, UNITE West Midlands Regional Secretary )

Unions were out in the community building support, discusssing with Saturday shoppers why unions are taking industrial action on 30^th November.

Activity was taking place in Birmingham, Telford, Leicester, Solihull, Lincoln, Mansfield and Nottingham.

In Birmingham alone some 10,000 leaflets were distributed by activists from the GMB, UNITE, NUT, PCS and NASUWT unions. The leaflets aimed to both dispell myths surrounding the pensions debate and promote the 'Pensions Justice - Day of Action' in Birmingham on November 30.

The reponse from the public was overwhelmingly positive, with many people choosing to sign a petition speaking out against the Government's 'Triple Squeeze' of working longer, paying more and getting less.

It is clear that the public are increasingly aware that working people are being scapegoated by the Government for the mistakes of the financial speculators.

Solihull Pensions leafleting Saturday 30th november

2011-11-18T16:29:00.000Z

UNISON’s, Solihull Local Government Branch, will be leafleting in Pine Square, Chelmsley Wood & Solihull High Street between 10am and 1pm on Saturday 19^th November. If you can help for an hour just turn up and get leafleting!

Public Meeting - “Crisis in Midlands Journalism”

2011-11-18T10:33:00.001Z

Public Meeting - “Crisis in Midlands Journalism”

6.30-9.30pm Thursday, December 8

Committee Rooms, Birmingham Council House, Victoria Square

Speaker: NUJ General Secretary Michelle Stanistreet

The Murdochs have dragged journalism’s reputation into the gutter nationally, but in the Midlands other dangerous attacks on the profession are taking place.

Trinity Mirror has put a dagger through the heart of its Midlands operations with news of scores of job cuts at its titles, including making all of its photographers in the region redundant and axing the 140-year-old Sutton Coldfield News.

National Union of Journalists members at the BBC’s Mailbox centre and Radio Coventry and Warwickshire are braced for around 100 editorial job cuts, as part of 2,000 demanded nationally because of the politically-driven short-changing of the Licence Fee settlement.

When these are combined with savage restructurings that have already taken place at ITV Central News, all the commercial radio stations and other local newspapers, we have a perfect storm not only for journalism, but democratic scrutiny in our communities.

Birmingham & Coventry NUJ Branch has called this debate to highlight the urgent peril to the West Midlands. Join us on the night to show your support for quality journalism.

Nottinghamshire Pensions leafletting tomorrow

2011-11-18T10:27:00.000Z

Nottinghamshire trade unionists are holding leafletting sessions right across the county - can you help for an hour to promote this campaign to protect public sector pensions?
Contacts below:
Nottingham Market Square, 12 noon, contact nottstc@gmail..com
Beeston 12 noon, contact Thomas.unterrainer@talk21.com for more info
Sutton in Ashfield town centre, 12 noon, contact Mick at mansfieldcentralbranch@googlemail.com
Mansfield town centre, 12 noon contact Danny on maggiekind@btinternet.com
West Bridgford, Outside Oxfam Shop contact Martin Sleath on martin.sleath@nottscc.gov.uk
Sherwood Nottingham, 12 noon, contact Richard Buckwell, richardbuckwell@hotmail.com