NASUWT calls on politicians to engage with Trade Unions

28 September 2009

Speaking at a fringe meeting entitled Doing Our Bit for Democracy: How Can Trade Unions Help Increase Participation in Politics? at the Labour Party Conference in Brighton, Chris Keates, General Secretary of the NASUWT, the largest teachers' union in the UK, said:

"Free trade unions are the hallmark of a democratic society. Any anti-trade union legislation is therefore unacceptable, both nationally and internationally.

"Oppressive regimes are distinguished by the persecution of trade unionists and indeed teachers. A political priority must be to secure and preserve free trade unions at home and abroad.

"Representing over six million workers in the UK, trade unions have a critical role in encouraging democratic participation, particularly in the light of the forthcoming election.

"The big issues which will be fought over at the next general election should not be taken for granted by any of the political parties. A big challenge for all parties is to decide how they will work with trade unions in the run up to and beyond the general election in order to engage the electorate in political processes and ensure democratic accountability.

"Constructive engagement with trade unions who have actively engaged with their members gives a voice to working people and must form the bedrock of any political party’s work to engage the electorate."