Sharon Graham, general secretary of Unite, the UK’s largest private sector union, has raised concerns over Labour leader Keir Starmer’s strategy, suggesting it may inadvertently strengthen support for Nigel Farage and his party, Reform UK. She criticized the government’s decision to reduce support for oil and gas workers and to dilute plans aimed at enhancing employment rights, such as banning zero-hours contracts and addressing “fire-and-rehire” practices.
In light of polling data indicating that Reform UK could become the leading party in the next parliament, Graham emphasized the urgency for Labour to revisit its proposals supporting workers in fossil fuel sectors. Speaking ahead of the annual TUC conference, she stated that Labour needs to act within the next year to prevent losing union member support to alternative parties.
Graham highlighted the potential dissatisfaction among voters due to proposed tax increases amid high inflation, cautioning that such measures could drive Labour supporters away. She urged the party to consider a wealth tax instead of further taxing workers to address public finance gaps.
Concerns within Unite regarding Labour’s leadership have escalated, with members threatening to withdraw financial support for the party. Specific priorities for Graham include advocating for the approximately 30,000 workers in the oil and gas industry and pressing the government to facilitate transitions into green jobs.
Graham noted that initiatives for investments in sustainable energy sectors have received limited attention from the government. Furthermore, the amendments to the employment rights bill, allowing councils to implement unfavorable employment conditions in financial distress, have contributed to unrest among union members.
The employment rights bill, anticipated to be finalized later this year, aims to introduce certain worker protections but has also drawn criticism for perceived shortcomings in union access and collective bargaining rights. Graham asserted that current provisions do not adequately empower unions, particularly against resistant employers.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/politics/2025/sep/06/unite-sharon-graham-labour-has-one-year-to-get-it-right-farage-starmer