The Fire Brigades Union has responded to the publication of the Conservative party manifesto, calling for stricter rules governing trade unions, as a fundamental attack on democracy.
Matt Wrack, FBU general secretary, said: “This Tory manifesto is a further attack on our democracy. These proposals would make it nearly impossible for workers to take any form of legal strike action.
“Britain already has some of the worst anti-union laws in the Western world and now the Conservatives want to make further attacks on a basic human right.
“The hypocrisy of the Conservatives is astounding. Barely any members of parliament have been elected to office securing 40% of their electorate’s vote that they are now demanding from trade unions.
“The Conservative mantra continues to be one rule for the rich and powerful, and another rule for workers trying to defend themselves.
“The Tories want to continue their war on working people.”
The Conservative party have said if they form the next government industrial action in the fire and rescue service would require the support of at least 40 per cent of all those entitled to take part in strike ballots – as well as a majority of those who turn out to vote.
