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Speaking up for you
19 September 2008
I am pleased to report that after top-level talks at Labour’s National Policy Forum the union won some important policy commitments from the Government.
On the national minimum wage the Government agreed to reduce the adult age rate to 21 from its current level of 22. While this doesn't match our aim to have it paid at 18 it is an important step towards that goal.
Labour also agreed to look at the rights around redundancy pay and the impact on staff when companies go bust, while improvements on maternity rights will also be considered.
Lifelong learning will also get a boost with the provision of free computer courses. The issue of working in excessive temperatures will also come under review.
The economy remains under intense pressure with inflation going up, house prices falling and consumer confidence at an all time low. Everyone is feeling the impact of the credit crunch and the prospect of a cut in interest rates seems distant. Rest assured that Usdaw will be doing all we can to protect our members' terms and conditions during these very difficult times.
It's reassuring that during the current economic slowdown Usdaw's membership is growing and is now more than 368,000. This is down to the hard-work, commitment, and dedication of our reps in all sorts of occupations.
In addition we are always keen to encourage ordinary members to get more involved. Many people's lives have been transformed after becoming more active in Usdaw. Reps will tell you it's a great confidence booster, it makes work more interesting and it can be very rewarding helping your colleagues, plus it can even lead to career progression within or beyond your current job.
Usdaw gives its reps first-class training in an informal and informative way. You can choose how involved you become. In the first instance use the Want to be a Rep Form to get more information.
John Hannett
General Secretary
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