Quote: Action without waiting for a formal ballot

[TrueBlueTerrier]

Campaign against Royal Mail privatisation hots up

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Dave Ward, CWU union assistant general secretary, last week threatened unofficial action against the government’s plans to privatise Royal Mail.

In an interview with the Financial Times, Ward said, “The industrial side of things is going to hot up between now and any sale.”

The CWU is launching a consultative ballot this week on action to boycott and disrupt delivery of private companies’ mail in opposition to privatisation.

It is also demanding a decent pay rise—without any strings demanding increased productivity.

Ward said that a yes vote in this ballot would be enough to call on members to take action without waiting for a formal ballot.

He argued that this is because it would be action in defence of the universal service, not an industrial dispute with the employer.

Royal Mail announced another leap in profits this week.

This, alongside the government taking on Royal Mail’s £9.5 billion pensions bill, means it has been made ready for sale.

Activists need to fight for a big turnout and strong yes vote. This can help make sure that the union leadership backs its words with action.

The result of the ballot will be announced on 19 June.