Unite has issued a strong rebuttal to Keir Starmer’s criticism of the ongoing Birmingham bin strike, intensifying tensions between the Labour government and one of the UK’s largest trade unions.
The row follows a Downing Street statement blaming Unite for prolonging the dispute, which has left the city struggling with uncollected waste. In response, Unite general secretary Sharon Graham defended the striking workers, accusing the government of siding with council cuts and failing to protect working people.
“It is not surprising that many workers in Britain question the Labour government’s commitment to working people when it issues a statement clearly blaming bin workers in a dispute not of their making,” Graham said.
She added that refuse workers were facing pay cuts of up to £8,000 and had already accepted major reforms, including the removal of bonus payments and shift allowances. Graham also criticised Birmingham City Council’s approach, saying it has moved the goalposts and failed to fully engage in negotiations.
“The government owns the £3.9bn debt of the council and the commissioners report directly to them. If they were really concerned about Birmingham residents, they would ensure Unite’s proposals are properly considered,” she said.
Unite says it remains open to talks and is willing to negotiate daily if needed, while criticising the council for holding only weekly meetings and lacking leadership at the negotiating table.
Stay up to date on industrial action and UK politics at London Pulse News.
