Unity

Unite is the biggest union in the UK and every other union in the country now looks to us to see what position we will take on any issue.  We have to be responsible in the way in which we operate.  There are many millions of unorganised workers in the UK, and the union movement needs to be united if we are to succeed.  I will ensure that we work co-operatively with other UK unions, not arrogantly.  Together we are stronger – the creation of Unite proves that.  However unity in the UK is not our greatest challenge.  The power of global multinational companies means that we have to build unity with workers and their unions across the world if we are to have strength and influence beyond our shores.  I do not accept that the international federations of unions which we currently have are beyond repair.  Whilst international merger sounds like a good idea, in practice it is beset with obstacles.  There is no substitute for genuine dialogue, co-operation and relationship building with other independent trade unions from across the world.  Our problems are here today and we have to act now to solve them – without forgetting that our members are in Birmingham, West Midlands not Birmingham, Alabama.