Taxpayers Spend Nearly £100m on Public Sector Union Duties

Costly Union Duties

Taxpayers in the UK have reportedly spent close to £100 million in just one year to cover the costs of public sector staff carrying out union duties, according to recent analysis. The Taxpayers’ Alliance revealed that over 23,500 workers were also serving as union representatives during the 2022-23 period.

Significant Spending Trends

Since 2017-18, a total of £526 million has been allocated towards facility time, which includes paid time off for staff to engage in union-related activities. Transport for London alone spent a substantial £8 million on such payments in the previous year.

Government Departments and Costs

The Department for Work and Pensions reported the highest number of trade union representatives, totaling 1,023 individuals, with associated costs amounting to £654,413. Meanwhile, NHS Lothian had the highest number of staff dedicating 100% of their working hours to facility time, with 48 employees costing nearly £1.9 million.

Plans for Future Spending

Despite previous promises from the Conservative Party to limit expenditures on trade union activities, the costs are projected to increase under Angela Rayner’s New Deal for Working People. John O’Connell from the TaxPayers’ Alliance emphasized the need for the government to identify savings by addressing these excesses.

Reactions and Justifications

NHS Lothian clarified that staff members solely dedicated to facility time represent just 0.12% of their overall payroll. Transport for London highlighted that they are often legally obligated to provide paid time off to union representatives. The Government stated their intention to foster more positive industrial relations moving forward.