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Network Journal 2007 Issue 1 Jan/Feb |
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Usdaw keeps M&S in its sights
Usdaw has launched a national campaign to give M&S staff the right to be recognised by a fair trade union just as the company emphasises its own ‘fair trade’ credentials.
While many M&S customers have returned to the company because of its welcome commitment to supporting fair trade farmers in the developing world, many of those customers are unaware that the high street giant refuses to recognise Britain's premier retail union.
"Usdaw has already recruited a significant number of M&S staff who are telling us it's time it recognised a fair trade union," said General Secretary John Hannett. "Our reps are already out there representing their colleagues many of whom feel their terms and conditions are being gradually eroded. We want to work with M&S to make sure their continued revival is not at the expense of staff.
"Our campaign points out that supporting fair trade growers by selling ethically sourced coffee in their restaurants is a great initiative but many shoppers would be concerned that the same ethical values don't extend to allowing our M&S members union recognition.
"We're confident that M&S customers will support us by returning specially commissioned postcards backing the case for union recognition and more M&S staff will join up to protect terms and conditions that traditionally have been among the best on the high street."
The leaflet and postcard are available to download.
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