UNISON, is Britain's largest union, i with members throughout most of the public sector, and must play a role in building the fightback for the welfare state and against job losses and privatisation.
However since the merger of COHSE, NALGO and NUPE last year, full-time officials have effectively had a free hand to do as they please - and true to form they have failed to lead or organise against any attacks, cutbacks or job losses, and accepted pay deals without reference to the membership.
The only activity taken up with any enthusiasm by the national leadership is witch-hunting left activists and branches that take action, like Sefton and Liverpool.
In fighting back, organisation in branches and regions is vital, but if the left is to have a national impact, national organisation is also needed.
That's why several regional left caucuses are calling for a national conference under the umbrella name of Campaign for a Fighting, Democratic UNISON. The title might not be catchy, but it spells out the tasks ahead.
If the left in UNISON is to survive it must be democratic and accessible to working class, women and black militants.
The best chance for this at present is the CFDU. All serious UNISON activists should lend their support and help build its December 3 conference.
CFDU Conference
Sat. December 3 10am-4pm Swathmore Centre 4 Woodlands Square LEEDS 3 Details Glen Kelly. 081-464-3333