Commenting on the government’s planned programme of legislation set out in the King’s Speech today (Wednesday), UNISON general secretary Christina McAnea said:
“These bills are the start of the long process to mend much of what’s been broken by Conservative governments and generate the growth to get public services thriving once more.
“Labour’s workplace rights package promises to be a game changer. For too long, bad bosses have had it all their own way. The new deal is a chance to reset the dial in favour of good employers and every UK worker and jobseeker.
“Outdated practices like ‘fire and rehire’ and zero-hours are to be consigned to history in a move that’s understandably proved popular with voters from across the political spectrum.
“Social care gets some attention at last too. After years of government neglect, the fair pay agreement is the first sign things are set to change, with a national care service the ultimate prize.
“Once the new pay agreement is in place, wages in care will rise across England, easing the sector’s staffing nightmare and relieving pressure on the NHS.
“The government’s growth agenda is closely linked to devolved regional and local services, yet many councils are teetering on the brink of effective bankruptcy.
“Devolving powers and reforming planning regimes can only help generate growth if local government receives sustainable, long-term funding and is able to retain expert staff.”
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: f.ayad@unison.co.uk
