In a speech at the GMB annual congress in Blackpool, Gary Smith, the General Secretary of the union, will caution against Nigel Farage and his “rebadged Tories,” highlighting their lack of support for workers. Smith will express concerns over Reform’s intentions to undermine hard-fought employment rights, criticizing their stance on issues such as zero-hours contracts and sick pay.
Despite recent polls showing Labour and Reform tied at 28% among unionized workers, Smith will emphasize the detrimental impact of Reform’s proposed repeal of the Employment Rights Act. This act currently safeguards workers from exploitative practices like fire and rehire, unfair dismissal, and inadequate sick pay.
While tensions exist between union leaders and the government regarding party strategy, the GMB, a major Labour supporter, is expected to reaffirm its backing for the party. Smith will urge members to reject Reform’s anti-union agenda, citing their historical alignment with policies that have negatively affected communities.
Reform’s agenda, which seeks to restrict union organizing and collective bargaining rights, has been widely criticized for being out of touch with public sentiment. Recent polling has shown overwhelming support for the protections outlined in the Employment Rights Act, including guaranteed hours contracts, day one sick pay, and the elimination of fire and rehire practices.
Smith’s speech will underscore the importance of standing against Reform’s efforts to undermine workers’ rights, emphasizing the need to protect the gains made through years of advocacy and struggle.
