By Chris Bartter

UNISON Scotland welcomed the Labour victory in the General Election but called on the new government to recognise the reasons for the cut in their majority.

Matt Smith, Scottish Secretary, said, "We're pleased that we can continue to work with Ministers in Westminster and Edinburgh to ensure continued investment in Scotland's public services, and to deliver the Warwick Agreement."

The Warwick agreement comprises a range of policies agreed by the Labour Party and trade unions, including; extending protection for public service workers; fairness at work, including more family friendly rights; tackling unequal pay in the public sector; TUPE style protection for pensions in transfers and much more.

UNISON is clear that there are still a number of issues to resolve with the Labour Government - especially public sector pensions; the reform of public services and improving workers' rights - especially in the areas of low pay and help for families.

Matt said, "The cut in Labour's majority was down to the effect of the Iraq War and the perceived privatisation agenda of the Westminster Government. Scottish Ministers would do well to note this latter factor. What people want is good local services not false notions of 'choice' masking further privatisation."

And he welcomed the continued failure of the BNP in Scotland. "The attempts of the racist BNP to stir up trouble in areas in order to get a toe-hold in Scotland have so far been unsuccessful but we must continue to be vigilant. The willingness of mainstream parties to play on people's worst instincts in relation to race is worrying. That's why UNISON's anti-racism campaign continues to be important".

headlines . top