Darrall Cozens, Coventry Trades Union Council, spoke to Martin Hartnett, Union Convenor, Peugeot Parts Division, Torrington Avenue, Coventry:
First, I would like to say whichever candidate wins the election for Unite General Secretary needs to be able bring the union closer together as Unite the union. We have a great potential to make our union really work for its members, becoming more democratic at our branches, workplaces and allowing our members the right to elect trade union officials; that is one of the principles Jerry Hicks is standing on and it has struck a key note with many lay members.
As the biggest union in the UK, we have a real opportunity to use our political influence. Up to now or when Labour was in power, this was found wanting. With all those millions spent on New Labour, our members’ money and the cosy relationship they seemed to have, little or no pro-union legislation has been promoted. Not even the right to re-instatement when unfairly dismissed. This flies in the face of our British sense of fair play!
We should only support Labour candidates who share our values and policies. Jerry Hicks has pledged to do this, a point which has reverberated very well amongst all members.
Working class people are facing tough times as the coalition government carries out cuts to public services, jobs and pay, cuts to our standard of living. Every single reform that has been won through the struggles of the labour and trade union movement is now under threat. The right to live in dignity in retirement with at least something of a pension – under threat. State benefits, such as housing benefit, when you are on a low income – under threat. The right to retire at an age when you can still enjoy the rest of your days – under threat. Rates of pay and hours of work – cut, cut, cut.
Let us be clear. Working people did not cause this crisis yet they are being made to pay for it while the culprits, the bankers and their system, get away scot free and still enjoy £billions in bonuses. It is time for the leaders of our movement to stand up and fight to defend what we have won in the past through struggle. We need leaders who will do that. That is why this election for the General Secretary of Unite is so important. By electing a fighting leader of the biggest trade union in Britain we will have the chance to mobilise not only Unite members but also other trade unions to stand up and defend what is ours. I believe that Jerry Hicks will be such a leader and that is why our trade union branch and work place branch have nominated him.
