Labour's Plan to Change Union Laws
Labour's deputy leader, Angela Rayner, plans to repeal laws requiring unions to have a minimum percentage of workers' support before calling strikes.
Tory Analysis and Concerns
Tory analysis suggests that this change could lead to an additional 74 strikes in the public sector, potentially resulting in 500,000 more lost working hours per strike day.
Transport Secretary Mark Harper expressed concerns about the impact of Labour's proposed changes, warning of potential chaos and disruption reminiscent of the 1970s.
Current Laws and Potential Impact
Currently, 50% of union members must vote in favor of a strike for it to be legal, with a higher threshold of 40% required in key public services like the NHS and schools.
Tory analysts estimate that failed strike ballots in 2022 could have led to 74 more strikes, resulting in almost 500,000 lost working hours across various public bodies.
Labour's Response
Labour has stated that they aim to reset the current government's approach to labor relations.
