Public Sector Strikes: Union Support

Debate between Lord Balfe and Lord Gardiner of Kimble

Wednesday 11th February 2015 Lords Chamber

[Lord Gardiner of Kimble]

My Lords, there is a very big difference. One is offering public service and one is withdrawing public service.

[Lord Balfe (Con)]

My Lords, I point out that the settlement put in place by my noble friend Lord Tebbit— my good friend—has substantially stayed throughout many years of opposition and government. I hope that the leaders of the trade union movement will take note that strikes on very low turnouts are increasingly unacceptable. I also ask the Minister to look positively at ways in which voting could be extended beyond the postal ballot to reflect the modern age that we are in.

[Lord Gardiner of Kimble]

My Lords, all issues should be looked at, and I very much encourage all trade union leaders to think of their broad membership, most of which often does not vote for strike action.