Commenting on the autumn statement today (Wednesday), UNISON general secretary Christina McAnea said:
“This is a desperate attempt to press the reset button and present the government as the party of change. But it’s too little too late and can’t undo the damage done.
“It’s a cynical ploy ahead of an early election. The government is on the ropes and wants to shift attention from its dire poll ratings.
“The chancellor is simply giving back what he and his inept predecessors have already snatched from working people. No one will be fooled. They will still be worse off.
“Yet again public services didn’t get a look in, aside from being told to deliver more for less. But in-crisis essential services can’t give the public what they need.
“Disabled people don’t want and shouldn’t have to rely on benefits. They need more rights at work, so they’re not forced out of their jobs by unsympathetic employers.”
Notes to editors:
– UNISON is the UK’s largest union with more than 1.3 million members providing public services in education, local government, the NHS, police service and energy. They are employed in the public, voluntary and private sectors.
Media contacts:
Liz Chinchen M: 07778 158175 E: press@unison.co.uk
Fatima Ayad M: 07508 080383 E: press@unison.co.uk
