Received from: National Education Union, Unison
Comprising of Motion 37 and amendments
Congress is deeply concerned at the success enjoyed by Reform in the General Election. Its attempts to divide communities, attack migrants and other vulnerable groups obscure how its policies stand counter to the interests of working people of all backgrounds and benefit no one but those who want to slash and burn UK regulations for private profit.
Reform’s manifesto said, “scrap thousands of laws that hold back British business and damage productivity including employment laws. We must make it easier to hire and fire”. It also called for the cutting of “unnecessary regulations” from the EU calling them “nanny state regulations” – including health and safety and anti-discrimination laws. Reform also intends to scrap net zero targets leaving our future at risk. Reform would damage the NHS, with policies for vouchers for private healthcare treatment, tax relief for private insurance and job cuts for “back room” staff. Its economic policies will cost us all.
Reform’s hateful rhetoric especially towards immigrants and LGBT+ people will leave communities divided. Reform have emboldened far right and fascists. The recent far-right riots represent the biggest uptick of fascistic activity in a decade.
Congress further notes with concern the march of far-right political parties and their connections across Europe and beyond.
Congress asserts that when Reform poses as a friend to workers, trade unionists are uniquely positioned to challenge them. Congress therefore calls on the TUC and its affiliates to challenge the politics of hate by:
i. raising awareness of Reform’s policies for the workplace and society and scrutinise and hold to account Reform’s elected representatives
ii. providing training courses, resources and support for unions in tackling the politics of the far right
iii. organising and recruiting migrant workers and defend their rights
iv. mobilise for demonstrations and campaigns against the far right called by Stand Up to Racism and others
v. working with the ITUC and global union federations to strengthen our response
vi. campaigning together to secure a New Deal for all working people and communities.
Mover: UNISON
Seconder: National Education Union
Supporter: NASUWT