Tag: STUC

STARMER TO GO

Sir Keir Starmer has announced he is stepping down as prime minister and leader of the Labour Party, here is his resignation speech in full:

https://twitter.com/i/broadcasts/1XGyggXMDAnxM

Thank you. Thank you. Walking up this street two years ago was the proudest moment of my life. A new Labour government. The first in 14 years. A page in our country’s history turned after years of disappointment and despair.

The chance to change the lives of millions of people for the better. That’s what I came into politics for. The journey to that point was not easy.

Six years ago, I inherited a Labour Party that was politically, financially and morally bankrupt. I was told, time and time again, that my party was finished.

That we were consigned to history, that a majority at the general election, let alone a landslide majority, was impossible. But we proved those people wrong because we changed our party.

Ripping out the poison of antisemitism, restoring trust on the economy, defence, and national security.

And becoming a party that, once again, stood proudly with, not against, our national flag. The hard work of change was with a singular purpose. Not power for power’s sake but to change Britain for the better.

To build a fairer country, with dignity and respect, where everyone is seen, everyone is valued. Wealth and opportunity for all, not just the privileged few. And look at what we’ve achieved in just two years.

An economy that is stronger, growing faster than our peers. Wages rising faster than inflation in every single month since we came to power. Investment secured, infrastructure being built. An end to austerity, with the fastest fall in NHS waiting lists for 17 years.

The biggest improvement in rights for workers and renters in a generation. The biggest uplift in defence spending since the Cold War. Small boat crossings falling, asylum hotels closing, protecting young people from social media, and half a million children being lifted out of poverty because of the choices that I made.

Our reputation in the world restored, with Britain once again standing up for decency, respect and the rule of law. Securing trade dues, standing with Ukraine, standing up for our values, and rebuilding our relationship with our allies in Europe.

Change promised by a Labour government. Change fought for by a Labour government, change delivered by a Labour government.

But I know the question being asked now is not who was best placed to change the Labour Party, to take us into power, and to begin the vital work of improving lives for millions of people. Those questions have been answered.

The question my party is asking now is whether I am best placed to lead us into the next general election. I have heard the answer of my parliamentary party to that question. And I accept that answer with good grace.

Every decision I’ve taken has been about putting the country I love first. That is why I will resign as leader of the Labour Party. I have spoken to His Majesty the King this morning to inform him of my decision.

I will ask the National Executive Committee of the Labour Party to set out a timetable with nominations opening on 9 July and completed by the summer recess. In the case of a contest, this will ensure a new leader is in place before Parliament returns in September.

I will remain in post as Prime Minister until the contest is complete. And I will do everything I can to ensure an orderly handover of power.

I will also give my successor my full and unequivocal support, knowing that they will inherit a Britain that is far stronger and fairer than the one I inherited two years ago, better prepared for the challenges ahead, and better able to ensure the Labour Party secures a second term in office.

I want to thank all of those friends and colleagues who have been at my side for these past six years or so for their incredible commitment, service and support.

I want to thank the brilliant No 10 staff and our country’s extraordinary civil service, who dedicate their lives to public service.

And when I leave, the biggest job in the country. I shall spend more time on the most important job. Being the best husband I can to my fantastic wife, Vic, who has been a rock by my side, through good times and bad. And being the best dad I can to my beautiful children, who are my pride and my joy.

Thank you very much.

https://twitter.com/i/broadcasts/1XGyggXMDAnxM

COMMENTS:

Tracy Gilbert MP

“Keir Starmer led the Labour Party to a historic landslide victory in 2024, ending fourteen years of Conservative government.

“Since then, he has overseen a period of significant reform and renewal under the most difficult circumstances.

“He led the biggest improvement in workers’ and renters’ rights in a generation, alongside the introduction of the Employment Rights Bill, which formed part of a wider programme to rebuild economic security and fairness. 

“He has rebuilt our relationship with Europe and has proven to have been able to represent the UKs interests on the international stage.  

“Most importantly, he lifted hundreds of thousands of people out of poverty through deliberate policy choices aimed at improving lives across the UK including the removal of the two-child benefit cap.  

“I wish him and his family well for the future and thank him for his service to the country at a pivotal moment in its history.”

Brian Leishman MP:

“A change of Prime Minister must mean a change in direction.

“This Labour government still has time to transform the country and improve the lives of millions of people.

“It’s time for real Labour policies that will make people better off and our country a fairer place.”

Momentum:

Socialist Labour …

 Former Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn:

‘Keir Starmer could have ended child poverty, homelessness and the grotesque levels of inequality in this country.

‘Instead, he abandoned those in need, destroyed our civil liberties and facilitated genocide in Gaza.

‘That is how this Prime Minister will be remembered – and that is the legacy of moral and political bankruptcy he leaves behind.

‘The crises in our society are not going away. Neither are we – and we will keep fighting for a more equal, peaceful and dignified society for all.’

STUC:

FBU general secretary, Steve Wright said: “Whoever replaces Keir Starmer needs to be clear that the status quo has to change.

“The reason we find ourselves with yet another PM standing down is that, like May, Johnson, Truss and Sunak before him, Starmer failed to break with the perceived wisdom of attacking public services, failing to tackle wealth inequality, whilst letting privatised public utilities rip off the people of this country.

“A new Labour leader needs to learn that lesson and learn it fast.

“For FBU members, this means stepping in to end the threat of fire station closures that puts our members and the public’s lives at risk.

“There needs to be investment in the fire and rescue service alongside other public services, and as an affiliated trade union, we will be putting that position before any candidate in a leadership election.

“We cannot have more of the same. If we do, then whoever is elected will inevitably have failed in their role and will be out of office at the earliest opportunity.

“The chance to break with the narrative of the past is now, learn the lessons that previous Prime Ministers failed to do and deliver a better future for our members and the people of this country.”

Police Scotland update on attacks across Edinburgh last night (Friday 19 June)

YESTERDAY (Friday, 19 June, 2026), police received multiple calls from members of the public about violent attacks including, threats, robbery and vandalism across Edinburgh, with five people injured.

Five men, two aged 22, and others aged 24, 27, and 39, sustained a range of injuries and three required hospital treatment, however none of the injuries are life threatening.

A 36-year-old white Scottish man was arrested and there is no further threat to the public.

Counter Terrorism Policing Scotland is investigating, supported by other specialist colleagues and local policing officers.

The first report originated from around 8.50pm in the Sighthill area, where two men were injured. They were taken to Edinburgh Royal Infirmary by ambulance.

Over the following period, reports were received about incidents around retailers across the West and North of the city.

During this period, three other men were attacked in the Telford Road and Leith Walk areas, suffering differing injuries.

Around 9.30pm, local police officers equipped with Taser confronted a suspect and, although Taser was not discharged, the man was detained.

The individual remains in custody and enquiries continue. Local policing patrols will continue across the area and our communities will see a visible policing presence over coming days.

Assistant Chief Constable Catriona Paton said: “This was a shocking attack and my first thoughts are with those who were injured and most directly affected.

“I want to send a clear message of support to all our communities that there is no place for racism or faith-based hate in a Scotland which is at its best when we stand together.

“Officers responded to multiple reports of a fast-moving sequence of events across Edinburgh before arresting a man and public safety was our priority.

“Extensive work is ongoing to establish all the circumstances. We are being supported by Counter Terrorism Policing and working under the direction of the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service.

“I want to thank our officers who responded with bravery and professionalism, and with a focus on protecting the public.

“I’m hugely grateful for the support and assistance of our communities and would appeal for anyone with any information to share it with police. We have established a major incident police portal.”

The Major Incident Public Portal (MIPP) has been set up to encourage members of the public to submit information directly to officers.

We would appeal to anyone with information that could assist with enquiries to upload it using the online form here: 

https://mipp.police.uk/operation/SCOT26X17-PO1

First Minister John Swinney said: “I am deeply concerned by these incidents. There is no place for violence, racism or intolerance in our country.

“I met community groups last week to assure them of the strong support of the Government.”

Prime Minister (at time of writing! – Ed.) Sir Keir Starmer tweeted: “Absolutely appalling. No one should face violence on our streets.

“The suspect appears to be motivated by anti-Muslim hatred. I will not tolerate this – he will face the full force of the law.

‘My thoughts are with those who are injured and I thank the police and the emergency services for their response.’

Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood added: “I am horrified by news of the attack in Edinburgh.

“I am grateful to the police and emergency services for their bravery in apprehending the suspect and for their speedy response in attending to the victims.

“The suspect appears to be motivated by anti-Muslim hatred.

“There is no place for hatred and violence against Muslims. I know it is not who we are as a country.”

Conservative Party Leader Kemi Badenoch said: “People should be free to worship, work and walk our streets without fear. The attack in Edinburgh is disturbing.

Violence in our streets is bad enough but reports indicate some of the victims were targeted because they were Muslim. This is abhorrent.

“I am glad police acted swiftly. The victims and their families deserve justice, and the public must have confidence that the law applies equally to everyone.”

Council Leader responds to attacks in Edinburgh

Following a series of incidents across the city yesterday (Friday 19 June), Council Leader Jane Meagher has condemned the attacks and has paid tribute to the response of emergency services.

Councillor Meagher said: “I was shocked and outraged to hear about the appalling incidents that took place across the city on Friday. 

“I, and fellow Councillors, stand in solidarity with those affected by what must have been a deeply traumatic experience. My thoughts are with those injured in the attacks and I wish them a quick recovery.

“I want to pay tribute to Police Scotland, including counter terrorism officers, and other emergency services for their quick action.

“I absolutely echo the words of Police Scotland that there is no place for racism or faith-based hate. I condemn all acts of racist violence and disorder – there is simply no place for it in our city.

“Those in our Muslim communities may understandably be feeling worried and concerned. I want to reassure that we will be working closely with Police colleagues and other partners to do all we can to make sure that communities across the city are safe and supported.

“Edinburgh is a proud diverse and welcoming city – strengthened by those from all backgrounds, cultures, faiths and walks of life that live here. Incidents like this remind us of the need to stand together against racism and prejudice.”

THE EDINBURGH INTERFAITH ASSOCIATION HAS ISSUED A STATEMENT:

MUSLIM COUNCIL OF SCOTLAND CALLS FOR REASSURANCE AND COMMUNITY VIGILANCE

The Muslim Council of Scotland remains deeply concerned by the violent incidents reported across Edinburgh yesterday, including the stabbing of two young Muslim students in Broomhouse and attacks on individuals perceived to be Muslim.

We welcome Police Scotland’s update confirming that a man has been arrested, there is no further threat to the public, and enquiries remain ongoing.

We have sought reassurance from Police Scotland, particularly as mosques and community organisations host family events this weekend and members of the Shia community prepare to mark Muharram in the coming days.

We encourage communities to remain calm, vigilant and mindful of their personal safety, and for organisers to review security arrangements where appropriate.

Our thoughts are with all those injured and affected. We thank Police Scotland and emergency services for their swift response and continued engagement.

MUSLIM ENGAGEMENT AND DEVELOPMENT STATEMENT

Four people were attacked and hospitalised across West Edinburgh and Leith last night. Several are Muslims. Our prayers are with them – may Allah grant them healing and protection.

Police Scotland must treat this as what the evidence indicates: Islamophobic, far right terror. To investigate these attacks while ignoring a motive shouted aloud at the point of arrest would tell every Muslim in Scotland the law does not see the hatred aimed at them. We expect a hate crime investigation and prosecution, and we stand ready to support the families.

To our community: stay vigilant, look out for one another, report what you see. You are not alone.

Read Full Statement:

https://www.mend.org.uk/targeted-violence-in-edinburgh

STUC STATEMENT:

NUJ members at STV strike on election results day

JOURNALISTS and technical staff at STV will strike over pay, with the action affecting coverage of the Scottish election results today.

Around 100 workers will form picket lines outside the STV offices in Glasgow (Pacific Quay) and Aberdeen (Craigshaw Business Park) from 8:30am.

Please share solidarity messages with campaigns@nuj.org.uk or join them in-person if you’re in the area. 

In March, members of both the NUJ and Bectu at STV voted for the industrial action over management’s decision to offer a 0% pay award, in one of the first strike ballots to be held under the new Employment Rights Act. 
 
NUJ members also went on strike as part of a separate dispute in January, braving cold weather and heavy snow to oppose damaging cuts to jobs and local news. 

Nick McGowan-Lowe, NUJ Scotland organiser, said: “It’s frustrating that due to the stubbornness of STV management, on the biggest news day in Scotland for years, Scottish viewers, listeners and readers won’t be able to hear what some of the most well-respected journalists, reporters and producers in Scottish broadcasting have to say.

“Our members would much rather be reporting the election results than standing on picket lines, but they have been driven to this action by management’s indifference as to how overworked and underpaid they are.  
 
“CEO Rufus Radcliffe has once again failed to grasp the opportunity to end this dispute, and it is personally embarrassing for him that STV will be broadcasting reruns instead of the biggest news story in Scotland.”

Vote counting in the Scottish Parliament election will commence this morning, after Scotland went to the polls yesterday.

Ballot boxes will be opened at 9am at designated counting centres across the county and the first constituencies are expected to be declared around midday.

If English council results are a guide, it promises to be a long and difficult day for the beleaguered Labour party in particular. Will spectacular Reform advances be mirrored north of the border, or can the SNP deliver an unlikely outright majority?

All will become clear later today.

STUC affiliation rises as workers win ‘generational’ upgrades to rights at work

Affiliation to Scotland’s largest trade union body has grown this past year as the Scottish Trades Union Congress embed their national project for trade union organising within local trades councils.

The number of trade unionists in Scotland affiliated to the STUC has grown by 14,000 in a move General Secretary Roz Foyer said showed “vindication for trade union organising within workplaces and communities”. 

The news comes as the Employment Rights Act, the biggest “generational upgrade” to workers’ rights starts to come into full force. Recent enhancements to trade union recognition, industrial action ballots and protection from unfair dismissal have all been enacted with further legislative changes on fire and rehire and reducing exploitative work forthcoming.

The STUC ‘Our Rights in Action’ project from the trade union body is the national campaign to strengthen the resources and reach of local trades councils, embedding trade union organising and education within communities and networks.

The project seeks to enhance the work of existing schemes, such as the Inverclyde Advice & Employment Rights Centre, Edinburgh Support at Work and the newly emergent Trade Unions in the Community initiatives as avenues to promote cohesion and unity within communities. 

The news was announced on day two of the STUC Annual Congress in Dundee this week.

Commenting, STUC General Secretary Roz Foyer said: “We’re pleased that affiliation numbers to the STUC have grown by 14,000. This is vindication for trade union organising within the workplace and within our communities, showing how working people are united against injustice and intolerance.

“Providing enhanced rights at work is one of the core focuses of our movement. The full swathe of the Employment Rights Act, promised to trade unionists, must be enacted quickly if we’re to turn the tide against bad bosses and poor employers.

“It’s through intensive work at community level – through our trades councils with our Rights in Action project and alongside existing schemes – will we ensure workers value the strength of our unity rather and choose to unite around commonality rather than gravitate towards those preaching division.

“Our Congress will make clear that trade unions are at the heart of inclusive, thriving communities. We will take that message both across the country and directly to the politicians all too content on stoking tropes and undermining worker solidarity.”

STUC launches Workers’ Manifesto for the Holyrood elections

A plan to “deliver dignity in work” has been launched by Scotland’s largest trade union body as the Scottish Trades Union Congress reveals its manifesto for the 2026 Scottish Parliament elections.

The manifesto, which builds on the successful Scotland Demands Better march and rally last October, sets out clear demands from trade unions on investment in public services, high quality jobs and a proper industrial strategy for Scotland.

The STUC has called for measures to raise an additional £3.7 billion for the public purse which include the introduction of wealth taxes, scrapping council tax for a proportional property tax and ending the £3 billion scandal of outsourcing within Scotland’s public services.

In addition to equity stakes in national infrastructure projects such as offshore wind and making government funding for manufacturing conditional on Fair Work terms and conditions, the trade union body say the manifesto “leads the way” for politicians to support Scotland’s workforce.

Commenting, STUC General Secretary Roz Foyer said: “Our manifesto is a clear plan to deliver dignity in work, revitalise our public services and rebuild our nation’s critical infrastructure.

“For too long have politicians, especially those now seeking our votes, been allowed to ride roughshod over the expressed will of Scotland’s workers. Many in our communities are desperately seeking positive change that, all too often, doesn’t materialise after the ballots have been counted.

“From high quality jobs to an economy that prioritises the needs of workers, our manifesto leads the way in showing the politicians exactly how they can support workers across the country.

“There can be no half-measures. People are under suffocating pressure from the cost-of-living crisis that, without urgent political intervention and support, will drive workers further from the political process and present an open goal to those in our communities intent on dividing working-class people.”

The STUC Manifesto, Workers Demanding Better, is below: 

stuc-manifesto-workers-demanding-better-scottish-parliament-election-2026Download



https://www.stuc.org.uk/resources/stuc-manifesto-workers-demanding-better-scottish-parliament-election-2026.pdf 

20th anniversary of Scotland’s leading smoke-free law celebrated

Public health charities, trade union representatives and people whose health or business improved following the ban of smoking in indoor public spaces are celebrating the 20th anniversary of Scotland’s UK-leading smoke-free legislation coming into force on 26 March.

Despite tobacco industry’s misinformation and campaigns to prevent the legislation which cleared the air in hospitality venues across the country, there was a recorded 99.4% compliance rate in pubs within eight weeks of the ban.

Longer term benefits of the ban included a 17% reduction in adult heart attack admissions to Scottish hospitals, reversing a previous rising trend, and an 18% decline in child asthma admissions. Second-hand smoke exposure among bar workers also reduced by 86%.

Sheila Duffy, Chief Executive of ASH Scotland, said: “Scotland’s UK-leading smoke-free public spaces legislation was a major public health success in encouraging many people to give up smoking and driving down the dangerous exposure of toxic second-hand smoke for staff and customers, including children, in indoor settings.

“We are delighted to celebrate what is considered one of the most important public health measures in the first quarter of the 21st century and a landmark achievement of the devolved Scottish Parliament.

“We hope its success encourages the next generation of MSPs to further extend smoke-free protections especially to areas most used by children such as in playgrounds, around schools and in sporting facilities.”

Roz Foyer, General Secretary of the Scottish Trade Unions Congress (STUC), said: “The indoor smoking ban has been an unparalleled success and it was entirely right – thanks to the campaigning of organisations and unions across the country – that the then Scottish Executive showed leadership in introducing UK-leading smoke-free legislation. 

“Protecting workers in their workplace is a core principle of our movement. We’re proud to have helped deliver improved health outcomes and a safer working environment for bar workers and hospitality staff across Scotland and will continue to build on that work as this leading legislation marks its 20th anniversary”

Lilian Macer, UNISON Scottish secretary,said: “The smoking ban marked a fundamental shift in public health in Scotland. UNISON is Scotland’s biggest health union, and this decision had a significant impact on our health services and improved workplaces. 

“It seemed like radical legislation at the time, but it quickly became the new normal and it would now be unthinkable to return to smoke filled rooms.

“I remember feeling pride as people in Scotland just got on with it. The lack of resistance was because civic Scotland built a consensus around the legislation.

“It was a catalyst for a big reduction in smoking, particularly amongst young people and we’ll reap the benefits for generations to come – particularly in the NHS. Of course we’ve much more to do, but it’s important to mark the significant progress we’ve made.”

Gareth Brown, Policy and Public Affairs Officer for Asthma + Lung UK Scotland, said: “As we welcome the 20-year anniversary of the smoking ban in Scotland, we can reflect that something that seemed controversial at the time is now commonplace across much of Europe and indeed the world with widespread and popular support.

“The ban ensured that smoking inside public places has thankfully ceased, with the link between socialising and smoking broken. Since then, generations of young people have never started smoking and have largely avoided the harms caused by passive tobacco smoke.

“This has helped to bring down smoking rates, but there is much still to be done, particularly in more disadvantaged area. Scotland needed this ban to improve the nation’s lung health, and our fight continues to help everyone breathe better.”

Get ready for HeartUnions

HeartUnions week is a chance to tell the story about why unions are vital for everyone at work, and to encourage people who aren’t yet in a union to join.

HeartUnions week 2026

HeartUnions belongs to union members and union branches all over the UK. So use the week to raise the profile of your union branch and your workplace priorities in the way that works for your members and activists. 

This HeartUnions Week we’re shining a spotlight on why it pays to be a union member.

When workers join together they increase their bargaining power. That’s why unionised workplaces deliver higher pay, safer conditions and better job security.

Through organising in their unions millions of workers are winning new rights at work . Sick pay from day one, guaranteed-hours contracts and an end to fire-and-rehire. 

That’s the difference unions make. And it’s why we’ll keep fighting for fair wages and secure conditions so every worker can thrive, not just survive.

With the cost of living putting real pressure on household budgets there’s never been a more important time to join a union. 

When unions do well working people do well.

Five things you can do 


1. Run a workplace event, rally, or a street stall

HeartUnions is our opportunity to highlight the good work unions do. Tell us about your event by adding it to the map. 

2. Join an event near you

Each year, people across the country run events during HeartUnions Week to highlight why trade unions are essential for everyone in the workplace. Find an event near you.

3. Order your HeartUnion merchandise

If you are organising HeartUnions events in your workplace or community, you can order HeartUnions materials and merchandise here, or contact your TUC regional office who can provide free resources.

4. Speak up on social media

Use the #heartunions hashtag to speak out loudly and proudly: if you want to make work pay, it’s time to join a union. Download our social media graphics to make a visual impact.

5. Inspire others to become union members

It’s always good to join a union that’s already active where you work – ask your colleagues, or look for information on your union website or on staff web pages.

Some jobs have unions that look after them specifically. Other jobs don’t – but they are looked after just as well by general unions, who have specialist sections.

If you’re confused about which union to join, our online union finder will help you find the right one.

There’s strength in numbers. So why not see if your friends and colleagues at work want to join up to a union too, and all do it together.

Use the Join a union tool now

STUC: Budget must prioritise ‘Scotland not political survival’

Scotland’s largest trade union body has urged the Scottish Government to prioritise the ‘people of Scotland and not political survival’ in their budget today (Tuesday).

The Scottish Trades Union Congress (STUC) are calling on the Scottish Government to take the “bold decisions” on reforming property, land and wealth taxes in their budget and to avoid “short-term electioneering” ahead of the election later this year.

Last year, on behalf of Tax Justice Scotland, the STUC published research showing Scotland’s five richest families hold more wealth than an entire quarter of Scotland’s population.

The research further showed that a modest 2% tax on all those with assets over £10 million could raise almost £500,000,000 for public services.

Commenting, STUC General Secretary Roz Foyer implored the Finance Secretary Shona Robison “do what is right” and deliver for Scotland’s workers during the budget.

Ms Foyer said: “Today, the Scottish Government must do what is right and prioritise the people of Scotland not political survival.

“With the election looming large, this budget can’t sacrifice the long-term wellbeing and growth of our nation on the altar of short-term political survival. We must see bold decisions from the Finance Secretary on reforming tax on property and land, along with the introduction of wealth taxes, not more of the same measures designed to prioritise short-term electioneering.

“STUC research has shown that modest wealth taxes on Scotland’s richest few can benefit the many with almost £500,000,000 raised for the public coffers in the process.

“These are the measures the Scottish Government must prioritise if they want the support of Scotland’s workers.

“This isn’t about the next four months; if the government wishes to re-take office for the next five years, we urge them to do what is right and stand beside Scotland’s workers tomorrow, prioritising public services, job security and decent pay in their budget measures.”

STUC research ‘Taxing Wealth for a Fairer and Greener Scotland’ can be viewed here:

https://taxjustice.scot/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/STUC-Taxing-Wealth-for-a-Fairer-and-Greener-Scotland.pdf

The great public services rip-off

Billions a year lost to private profit: STUC report into Scotland’s outsourcing crisis

Almost £3 billion of public money is “lining the pockets” of private profiteers within Scotland’s public services according to a shock new report from Scotland’s largest trade union body.

The Scottish Trades Union Congress (STUC) has issued a stark warning following the publication of new research by the Association for Public Service Excellence (APSE), estimating that outsourcing is draining £2 to 3 billion EVERY YEAR from Scotland’s public services through private profit and financial extraction.

The report shows that Scotland’s public money is being siphoned away from vital public services, including health, social care, education and local government and into the pockets of investors, global corporations and private equity funds.

Published by the APSE on behalf of the STUC, the report highlights the private-dominated care sector, where 79% of care home places are now in private hands and more than 20% of income leaks out of the system to corporate owners and investors.

Scotland spends more than £16 billion a year buying services, goods and works from external suppliers. The services that are most commonly outsourced, such as social care and soft facilities management, are overwhelmingly staffed by women. The report highlights that sacrificing the pay and pensions of thousands of low paid women is discriminatory, unfair and counterproductive.

STUC Leader Roz Foyer condemned the findings and called into question the aims of the Scottish Government’s own Public Service Reform Strategy, which stresses prevention, whole-system planning, fair work and community wealth building.

Roz Foyer, STUC General Secretary, said: “This report exposes the true cost of Scotland’s rip-off outsourcing crisis – a systematic extraction of public wealth on an industrial scale.

“Billions of pounds that should be paying for health, care staff, cleaners, refuse workers and local services are instead lining the pockets of shareholders and private equity interests with not a penny reinvested into our public services.

“We are urging the Scottish Government to act now. The bear minimum they need to do is ensure the same level of scrutiny is applied to the extent and quality of privately delivered public services as the Government applies to direct provision.

“However, you cannot build a Fair Work economy on the backs of the private profiteering of our public services.  Insourcing, directly awarding services and embracing trade unions as partners in that endeavour is not only fairer but also economically smarter. Every pound kept in public hands supports local jobs, local economies and better services.

“As we approach the election, Scotland cannot afford political silence from prospective MSPs who ignore the silent privatisation of Scotland’s public services.  Our public services are too important to be auctioned off to the lowest bidder and should not be handed to profiteers.”

STUC: St Andrew’s Day Anti-Racism and Anti-Fascism March & Rally

Scotland’s largest anti-racist demonstration takes place this weekend.

If you want to oppose the poison of the far-right; if you want to stand up for those in need and value unity over division, then join us:

SATURDAY 29/11 at 10.30am – Barrowlands Park