Unison delegates force a debate on funding New Labour

Press release

Unison conference 2008 anti-witchhunt protest meeting overflowed, photo Paul Mattsson

Delegates at UNISON conference, despite vociferous opposition from the national leadership, have voted to give top priority to discussing a motion calling for “a full review of the political funds arrangement”.

Unison conference 2008 anti-witchhunt protest, photo Paul Mattsson

Throughout the week of the conference anger has been growing at the New Labour government’s policy of pay restraint, and at the union continuing to fund New Labour.

Campaign for a New Workers’ Party supporter, Glen Kelly, who will be moving the motion, said:

“New Labour continues to demand our members accept poverty pay, yet we pay them millions of pounds in affiliation fees. It really is feeding the hand that bites us. I believe the time for a serious discussion on disaffiliation is long overdue.”

Glen Kelly is one of four union activists currently facing a witch-hunt for campaigning for union democracy. For more info go to www.stopthewitchhunt.org.uk

Glenn Kelly at Unison conference 2008, photo Paul Mattsson

Glen will be speaking at the Campaign for a New Workers’ Party national conference which is taking place on Sunday 29 June. Go to www.cnwp.org.uk for more info.

Press release from the Campaign for a New Workers’ Party (CNWP). All quotes in a personal capacity.