Keir Starmer took time out of a busy visit to the North West to open the new Salford Quays head office of retail trade union Usdaw. Addressing union staff he emphasised the need to get a Labour Government so that we can together deliver a new deal for workers.
Introducing the Labour leader, Paddy Lillis – Usdaw General Secretary said: “Keir, the pandemic has been hugely difficult for our members and all working people. Throughout that it has been heartening to see you stand with us, championing a new deal for workers and promoting policies that will fundamentally change the lives of working people and their families for the better.
“It is clear that you have changed the Labour Party and it is high time for a Labour Government to change the country too. Today is a proud moment in our union’s history and we so pleased that Keir Starmer is here to share it with us. We are proud to keep our roots on the north of England where we began and from our new home we stand ready to fight for our members.”
Officially opening the new Usdaw head office, Keir Starmer said: I want to thank you for all the hard work you do on behalf of your members and all working people: those on the frontline, those on the shop floor and those that desperately need your help and support. Our trade unions are a proud part of our history, they are part of our present and so much part of our future.
“I’m particularly proud of the work we have done on a new deal for workers. That was a combination of us in Parliament working with the trade unions to put together policies on rights for working people; really important rights including flexible working, outlawing ‘fire and rehire’ and improving Statutory Sick Pay.
“It’s that forging together of your work as a trade union and our work as politicians that built our movement. Thank you for inviting me to open the new office, I want to be here many times working with you and I hope that not in the too distant future I will be addressing you as your Prime Minister.”
