The UNISON Local Government Service Group Executive
has voted to reject the employers’ 2.45% pay offer. The outcome of the
consultative ballot was 45% to accept and 55% for rejection. The issue will now
go to the Industrial Action Committee with a proposed timetable of a ballot
beginning 27th May and strike action to commence on 8th July.
The consultative ballot gives a slim but clear mandate
to proceed with action, and it is vital that this dispute is seen in the wider
context of the action that is taking place in the NUT, PCS and UCU. The big
picture however is that members don’t have much option other than to reject the
current offer. Fuel price hikes, mortgage increases and the ever present threat
that we are going to have to pay for the fallout from Northern Rock means that
there are huge pressures on UNISON local government members, most of whom are
women and many of whom are in low paid jobs.
It’s obvious from the reports that Socialist Appeal
has received that some areas didn’t ballot their members and that turnout was
low in some regions. But more than anything else this represents the failure of
some branches and the bureaucracy to campaign on the issue. We also have to
remember that more than anything else the UNISON bureaucracy is keen to
maintain its cosy relationship with the Labour leadership. Last year’s debacle by
the UNISON leadership over pay doesn’t help, as it means that some members
are likely to take a wait and see approach to this year’s campaign. However,
the reality is that other unions are already in struggle and the economic
situation isn’t going to get any better. So there is a distinct possibility
that the mood might harden.
Key to a successful ballot is the activity of
activists and branches all over the country. Pressure must be applied to
maximise turnout and to fight for the full claim. The bureaucracy will
move if it’s pushed hard enough.
Across the public sector a head of steam has been
developing for some time and the potential for a united campaign linking
together civil servants, local government and schools and colleges is clear to
see. It could be a hot summer…
Fight for the full claim!
End wage restraint! We won’t pay for the
New Labour meltdown.
