Usdaw members will debate Co-op proposals

OVER 1,300 Usdaw members and officials will attend the union&#039s 58th annual delegate meeting at Blackpool&#039s Winter Gardens on 25th April. Topics to be debated include rights at...

OVER 1,300 Usdaw members and officials will attend the union&#039s 58th annual delegate meeting at Blackpool&#039s Winter Gardens on 25th April.
Topics to be debated include rights at work, crime, transport and education ? including three propositions from Co-op Usdaw branches.
The North West Retail Co-op branch will ask Usdaw to lobby the Government to help cut student debt, which it believes is "deterring talented students from progressing to higher education".
The motion says the Government should abolish loans as the primary source of support; simplify student finance by restoring a system of grants and increase core funds for higher education to ensure delivery of high quality education.
The branch is also concerned about speed cameras and is calling on the Government to focus on accident blackspots, rather than "easy target areas where they are making money".
Plymouth and South West Co-op Usdaw members want the Government to begin a "sympathetic review" of the Mental Health Act. A branch motion highlights particular reference to the "terminology which stigmatises those affected and their families causing an attitude of embarrassment and shame, where there should be help and understanding".
Delegates have also submitted a motion opposing the principle of foundation hospitals. The Darlington Usdaw branch motion believes that all NHS hospitals should be properly financed through the tax system and applauds the Labour Party conference for voting against the idea.
Other issues covered in the 65 motions are the Bradford Morrisons branch encouraging Usdaw members to buy Fairtrade goods and Andover Twinings call for the banning of fireworks at high street stores, supermarkets and other retail outlets. It says fireworks should only be sold at specialised outlets licensed by the local authorities.
Home Secretary David Blunkett is expected to be the conference&#039s main guest speaker on the Tuesday morning.
General Secretary Sir Bill Connor said: "This is the biggest event in the union&#039s calendar. It gives workers from across the UK the chance to have their say on every aspect of union policy. It is an essential part of our democratic procedures and promises to be a lively, informative and enjoyable four days."

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