Public Sector Strikes: Union Support

Debate between Lord Gardiner of Kimble and Baroness Corston

Wednesday 11th February 2015 Lords Chamber

[Lord Gardiner of Kimble]

My Lords, unlikely though it may seem to noble Lords opposite, I think that trade unions and the trade union movement have a very strong place in our national life. There have been difficulties, but I think that trade unions are institutions that have had many responsible members—of course I do. The whole issue is whether they have reasonable and responsible leadership on occasion; leadership should be shown. We could be about to have bus strikes where 21% of the union membership have voted for that strike.

[Baroness Corston (Lab)]

My Lords, if a turnout of 21% in a trade union postal ballot is unacceptable, can the Minister explain why we are told that a turnout of 8% in an election for a police and crime commissioner is perfectly okay?

[Lord Gardiner of Kimble]

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