Workplace news in brief


Mark Harding

In an important victory for all trade unionists, RMT branch secretary Mark Harding has been found not guilty of charges relating to February’s tube strike.

Mark was charged under the anti-trade union laws and, in a clear politically motivated attack, under the Serious Organised Crime and Police Act.

Originally he was also put under draconian bail conditions which were dropped when challenged by a union solicitor.

This verdict is not just an important one for Mark but for all trade unionists seeking to picket effectively during strikes.

The battle to defend jobs and services on London Underground goes on.


Leeds strike

Members of Unite the Union at Optare, a bus manufacturing company based in Sherburn-in-Elmet, near Leeds, took a second day of strike action on 2 June as part of a dispute over changes to holiday entitlement.

The company plans to have a two week shut down in August, forcing staff to take annual leave for the period. As union reps explained to us, the average cost of a family holiday then is 92% higher and for some it had can be over 180% more expensive!

The strike has so far been solid with around 90% of the shop floor workforce on strike, with a number of lorries turning round instead of crossing the picket line.

Negotiations are scheduled, but if the company doesn’t back down then workers are prepared to take further action.

Please send messages of support to [email protected]

Iain Dalton, Leeds Socialist Party

I am Bryan

A strike in support of One Housing convenor Bryan Kennedy, who has been victimised and suspended, will run from 8am on 6 June to 8am 10 June.

Pickets will be at 100 Chalk Farm Road, London NW1 8EH on 6 and 9 June and at 402a Caledonian Road, London N7 8UA on 7 June.