Alternatives to trade union membership

Milarky

Are there any genuinely independent trades union organisations one can join to get one's statutory workplace representation and advice without being associated with all that is New Labour?

I belong to USDAW, and they are pretty lame. But I would prefer not to be associated with the 'Labour always looks out for you' line which is inherent in membership as it's getting silly when a TU so clearly takes it lead from what Labour politicians are telling it.

So what I'm in the market for is a robust, independent of party, thoughtful, geniunely pro-worker organ, but without the insularity traditionally associated with unionism. I know it's a bit of a tall order, given that these traditional labour [small l] organisations struggled to survive under Thatcher's rules so they can't really be criticised for clinging instinctively to Labour as 'our enemy's enemy'. But I would hope that some enlightened workers could have created something a bit more civic by now?

Do any independent TUs exist then?

spendaholic

My union doesn't affiliate to any political party and they've just thrown out a suggestion for a political fund so that they don't have to. But as socialists, we all generally lean towards any socialist political parties, although in my opinion, some lean a bit far to one side.

There is the possibility of setting up some sort of workers' committee, which would receive a more favourable response from the employers. But generally the recognised trade unions, or those in the TUC, carry more clout.

If you have reservations about USDAW, you should take it up with them, firstly via your chapel or local branch.

[Deleted User]

Until you find an alternative Union - you should be able to opt (by filling out a form) for NONE of your contributions to go to the policital fund.