Usdaw joins thousands to commemorate the martyrs and celebrate the birth of trade unionism

Rab Donnelly – Usdaw deputy general secretary elect says: “At the Tolpuddle Martyrs’ Festival we celebrate workers’ contribution to society, reflect on the achievements of the labour and trade union movement and look to future challenges and campaigns. Millions of low-paid workers provide essential services to help ensure the country is fed, healthy and safe, but often do not get the recognition, respect or reward they deserve.

“Labour’s Employment Rights Bill will help end years of low-paid, insecure employment which failed our economy, businesses and working people. This historic legislation will contribute to securing economic growth by improving productivity after years of stagnation. It will help stop rogue employers undercutting those who treat their staff properly, while giving workers security, respect and the decency of an income they can live on.

“It is shocking that the Tories, Lib Dems and Reform continue to oppose these measures at every stage. Only this week, opposition Peers undermined Labour’s plan to make work pay and jobs more secure, which was clearly a key part of Labour’s manifesto and was overwhelmingly supported by voters in last year’s landslide general election win. It ill becomes unelected Tories and Lib Dems in the House of Lords to go against the expressed will of the people.”