Stop the war and bring the troops home

(17/3/03) UNISON has today reiterated its position on a possible conflict with Iraq – saying that without the explicit authority of the United Nations Security Council war would be "unjustifiable".

The union has also released advice to branches regarding possible workplace workouts and protests in the event of war.

General secretary Dave Prentis said:

"Despite the best efforts of large sections of the international community - and in the face of widespread public opposition around the world - Britain is standing on the brink of war.

"It is up to every UNISON member to make their voice heard and tell the government that war against Iraq cannot be justified.

"UNISON's position on this issue is crystal clear - we believe any military action without the explicit authority of the United Nations Security Council would be unjustifiable and against international law and the requirements of the UN charter."

He added that the union opposes military action because it does not accept that the case for war has been demonstrated.

"UNISON has also been instrumental in developing a similar position in the TUC.

"The TUC general council statement, agreed unanimously, expressed the view that on the evidence currently available the conditions for military action had not been met and war could not be justified."

Stop the War coalition is encouraging support for a range of activities. If war is declared, local Stop the War groups will be organising local demonstrations, particularly at lunchtimes in city centres to protest against the war.

UNISON members may therefore wish to participate in such protests and in London a large demonstration will take place at lunchtime in Parliament Square.

There will be a second national demonstration in London on Saturday 22 March at 12noon. The assembly points are the same as for 15 February:

Route A - Gower Street, for all those from the north

Route B - Embankment, for everyone else (including London)

Please start booking transport now to ensure the biggest possible turnout Further information from 0207 053 2153/4/5/6 or www.stopwar.org.uk or email office@stopwar.org.uk.

In addition branches and members are also urged to continue to lobby their MPs.

Mmebers may have seen references in the media to unofficial industrial action.

The legal advice UNISON has received is that strike actions in protest against the war would not be legitimate trade disputes under the relevant legislation.

Any unofficial action, no matter how well intentioned, could see the union being sued by employers for up to £250,000 each. Branches must, if in any doubt, contact their regional secretary.

As the position develops the union will advise branches accordingly - please visit this website regularly or contact UNISONdirect on 0845 355 0845.

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