Ambulance workers on the picket line outside Soundwell Ambulance Station, in Bristol
(Picture: Ben Birchall / PA)The Government is bringing forward a new law which will force unions to ensure a minimum level of service by paramedics, rail workers, and the fire service during strikes. It could be extended in future to cover other workforces carrying out industrial action.
Ministers have been accused of rushing through the legislation without MPs giving it proper scrutiny, by allowing it to pass through the Commons in just two days.
Labour’s deputy leader Angela Rayner said: “Ministers know this shoddy, unworkable Bill won’t do a thing to help working people or avoid strikes. Labour will resist this desperate attempt to dodge any serious scrutiny as they try to rush it through Parliament.”
It’s been defended by Business Secretary Grant Shapps, who said: “We don’t want to use this legislation but we must ensure the safety of the British public.”
What do you think of the anti-strike laws? Let us know in the comments or on our Instagram for your chance to be featured on the ES website.
Yesterday, we asked: Should immigration rules be relaxed to help fill London’s skill shortage?
Standard reader Jan21TT asked the question: “How is he going to ensure that the ‘imports’ stay in London?”
On Instagram, jhaughey88 suggested: “Temporary visas should be offered to fill the void whilst British people get trained up.”
atelier88jaen commented via Instagram: “invest in training & education and pay a proper living wage - don’t steal resources from other countries”.
