Three of the UK’s largest trade unions are to begin merger talks. Amicus, the TGWU and the GMB have between them 2.6 million members.

A merger would give them huge industrial and political clout, including greater influence over Labour policies. Derek Simpson, Amicus leader, is said to see the merger as the first step towards his vision of a Europe-wide union. Co-operation with Germany’s IG Metall, one of Europe’s largest unions, would then become a distinct possibility.

If formed, the new union would have a combined annual income of £200 million and a recruitment fund of £20 million, as well as 300 Labour MPs among its members.

Source

Electrical and Mechanical Contractor