In a bold statement, Labour has promised to repeal anti-strike laws within 100 days of winning a general election. Speaking at the Trade Union Congress (TUC) annual conference, Deputy Opposition Chief Angela Rayner announced plans to get rid of laws that guarantee minimum staffing levels in schools and the National Health Service (NHS) on strike days.
A Fundamental Freedom
The Minimum Service Levels Act was introduced by the government amidst this year's "winter of discontent." The period witnessed frequent strikes by nurses, doctors, teachers, and rail workers, putting both their livelihoods and the economy at risk. Rayner criticized the Act, calling it a "spiteful and bitter attack" that endangers the jobs of nurses.
Defending the right to strike, Rayner stated, "Going on strike is always a last resort, but it’s a fundamental freedom that must be respected." She assured delegates that a Labour government would repeal these laws within the first 100 days in office, allowing unions to better advocate for their members.
Fury and Warnings from Conservatives
Rayner's pledge to scrap minimum staffing rules has sparked fury among Conservative Members of Parliament (MPs), who fear it could lead to widespread strikes and disrupt public services. Conservative Chairman Greg Hands warned that reversing the anti-strike laws would damage the economy and negatively impact hardworking individuals.
Hands said, "Only the Conservatives are delivering the protections we need to stop Labour-backed union leaders from trying to shut down the country."
"New Deal for Working People"
Rayner also announced a "New Deal for Working People" to be implemented within 100 days of a Labour government. This deal aims to provide workers with greater protections against unfair dismissal, eliminate zero-hour contracts, and promote more flexible working arrangements, among other measures.
The Deputy Leader urged union chiefs to join forces with Labour and actively participate in next year's general election campaign. Rayner emphasized the need for unity in order to secure a victory against the Tories.
"This country can't survive another five years of Tory rule," she declared.
To achieve this goal, Rayner called upon trade unions to help spread the word about the "New Deal for Working People," highlighting the importance of collaboration and solidarity.
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