(Secretary, Hull Trades Council) THE TUC IS facing growing attacks for its plans to hold its July 5 conference on Full Employment with Tory minister, David Hunt and CBI leader Howard Davies as guest speakers.
The TGWU executive has voted to boycott the conference and the GMB are reported to be unhappy with the TUC decision.
These latest moves follow the unanimous decision of delegates at the TUC Trades Councils conference earlier this month to oppose the invitations to Hunt and Davies to speak.
Pressing ahead
However, the TUC leadership is pressing ahead with the conference. John Monks said at the Trades Council conference, 'If I had a big stick, I would use it, but I don't'.
It is a scandal that the TUC can spend £50,000 or our money inviting the representatives of a Tory government to speak, this is the same government that has created much of the current unemployment.
Fortunately support for an alternative to the policies of John Socialist Monks's finger-wagging won't beat back the bosses offensive Monks is growing. There will be a demonstration outside Congress House on the morning of the conference.
Trades councils The 'Big Stick' demonstration already has the support of the NUM, Women Against Pit Closures, Mike Mansfield QC, Paul Foot and a growing number of trades councils.
Camden Trades Council are co-ordinating the arrangements. All trade union organisations should pass resolutions condemning the invitation to the Tories and the CBI.
Everyone who can should assemble outside Congress House, Great Russell Street at 8.30am on Tuesday July 5.
• To add your name to the growing list of demo sponsors or for further details ring 071 387 8440/8436.
• Alternative Conference organised by Greater London Association of Trade Councils 10am at Conway Hall, Red Lion Square, London WC1.