AN estimated 12,000 firefighters from across the country turned out on June I1 to London to press home their pay demands.
The FBU has been demanding an increase in the basic wage from the current £21,500 to £30,000, and General Secretary Andy Gilchrist drew massive applause when he warned the employers that the union had a strong mandate to take industrial action if no progress is made in negotiations. He has already told the PBU conference delegates that neither the November 2002 deadline The FBU has for years seen pay pegged carnings, in accordance with a deal secured against the Labour government in 1977-78.
Now theyare seeking improvements to the formula along with a major increase in the basic rate.
militancy pay matched by political developments inside te r'Bu, which wis ycar saw a bitter conference argument over or tae union's poutical tund Following was equivalent to disaffiliating from the Labour Party. delecites voted for a lender changes necessary to democratise the fund.
Events will show how his lovalty to New Labour is rewarded by Blair's team.
Management Organisation running housing. UNISON told delegates " won a tremendous victory by has bol been uniting tenants worklorce the democratisation 12008 Defend Housing played a key role™. a hard-line intervention by Low pay in local government is being challenged by trial action. Over earn less members in London taken 3 days already action for a £4000 London Weighting claim.
Outlook