INDUSTRIAL RELATIONS AT WARBURTONS

Early day motion 788, tabled 15 January 2018 by Ian Mearns (Labour). Signed by 19 members.

That this House welcomes the agreement on pay, terms and conditions between Warbutons and employee members of the Bakers, Food and Allied Workers Union; notes that the deal involves a substantial increase in the basic hourly rate for most workers, more stable shift patterns to allow workers greater ability to manage their lives and increased learning opportunities; commends both parties on the productive spirit in which negotiations were held; believes this example demonstrates that responsible employers recognise the benefit of investing in the workforce, preserving high product standards and avoiding a race to the bottom in pay and conditions; and therefore calls on other employers in the food manufacturing sector to recognise trade unions and negotiate in a similarly constructive manner to mutual advantage of the business and the workers.

Signatures by party: Labour 12, Scottish National Party 3, Labour/Co-operative 2, DUP 1, Independent 1.