Seven MPs leaving Labour to sit in the House of Commons as an independent group is “terrible news and the last thing public service employees across the UK will want to hear,” UNISON general secretary Dave Prentis said today.
Reacting after a news conference to formally announced the split, Mr Prentis added “Working people need a Labour government but split parties don’t win elections.
“It is deeply concerning that at such a critical time, MPs have sought to distract the party and unions from the real issues facing the country. Now is the time for unity across the movement.
“Now must also be a time for reflection. Everything possible must be done to avoid a damaging repeat of the 1980s split. Unity must be the party’s overriding aim at such a critical time for the country.
“Only a united party can protect public services, jobs and disadvantaged communities. All are suffering desperately after years of Tory rule.”
Mr Prentis added: “Theresa May and her dreadful government must be held to account, not just for their chaotic handling of Brexit, but for the terrible damage their policies are wreaking on communities across the country.
“The country is calling out for leadership and a route out of the Brexit stalemate. A general election has become a necessity. People must be given a proper say and the chance to vote in a Labour government to take charge of the PM’s Brexit chaos.
“The Labour party must come together over Brexit and ensure the country is spared the calamity of a no deal.”
UNISON and the Labour Party
