Postal
Postal workers in Britain continue to battle against privatisation of Royal Mail
(4 May, 2009): The Communication Workers Union (CWU) is to hold a May Day March and Rally as part of its ongoing campaign to stop the partial privatisation of the Royal Mail.
The campaign, "Keep Royal Mail Public", is also supported by a growing number of British Labour MPs, which now leaves the government having to rely on opposition votes to drive through it's controversial Postal Services Bill. The Bill could see around 30% of the state-owned operator sold to a competitor.
Earlier this year, MPs and CWU representatives released hundreds of balloons in central Manchester, one balloon for each year the service had been in operation.
CWU General Secretary Billy Hayes has led the CWU campaign against privatisation.
"Royal Mail can and must have a successful future in full public ownership. We welcome modernisation, responsibility on pensions and the change of regulator but do not see the need for privatisation. This element of the Bill must be amended to ensure a successful future for the UK's postal industry," Billy Hayes said.
Guest speakers at the rally will include former Postmaster General Tony Benn and a number of leaders of other unions supporting the CWU campaign.