We need to fundamentally rethink whether our workplace rights are fit for the 21st century says GMB.

GMB has responded to a planned Conservative manifesto announcement on workers' rights.

Tim Roache, GMB General Secretary, said: "I'm sure there will be plenty of fanfare that the Conservatives have realised the importance of working people's votes, but the 'greatest extension of workers rights by a Tory Government' frankly wouldn't be that hard to achieve given recent history.

"GMB members will believe it when they see it.

"Want to improve the lot of working Britain? End the public sector pay pinch that is seeing thousands of front line workers struggle.

"Give workers equal rights from the day they start work and end the wide scale abuse of agency contracts by companies who use insecure work as a business model.

"Commit to a real living wage that people can live on without claiming benefits - all of which Labour has pledged to do. And let's not forget, a lot of the problems working people face day in, day out were caused by Tory austerity policies in the first place.

"Of course bereavement leave for parents and investment in retraining are welcome, but on their own they fall far short of what GMB members are crying out for.

"We need to fundamentally rethink whether our workplace rights are fit for the 21st century."

ENDS

Contact: GMB press office on 07958 156846 or at [email protected]