Politics versus jobs
The Prime Minister was right, of course, to postpone the much anticipated speech on the UK's future relationship with the European Union in light of the extremely serious situation in Algeria last week. There is little doubt that the Conservative Party leader is coming under serious pressure from a variety of directions over his often clumsy interventions on this aspect of policy, domestically and internationally.
The UK has in many quarters always been regarded as never fully committed to the broad European project, never really regarded as fully 'European', in fact, by many. Cameron's approach only confirms that view, seeking to accrue the benefits of the UK's geography, as far as access to the world's most valuable market, while also hoping to influence the policy and practice of member states while opting out of those regulations here. As in so many other areas, facing several ways in the same direction not only lacks credibility, it is also a guarantee that influence and outcome will be further diminished.
Trade with the European Union contributes directly to over three million jobs in the UK, over 170,000 in the north east and Cumbria. That alone should inform an enthusiastic, positive view of the benefits of EU membership. Add to that a further 35,000 jobs directly attributable to European Regional Development Funding which will increase the north east GDP by £1.1 billion the economic case is clear. Uncertainty about future engagement within Europe is already influencing investment decisions, of both inward investors and existing exporters, lack of certainty is totally unhelpful in efforts to encourage the private sector to invest in the growth we so badly need in the north east.
It was no surprise to learn that the real agenda, articulated by the Conservatives 'Fresh Start' group last week, is not really anything other than an attempt to reduce employment rights and lower standards in the workplace - a long-standing ambition of the Tories. It is the case that many basic standards for workers, including holiday pay, parental leave, equal treatment for part-time and agency workers and key health and safety provisions, over the last 20 years have been initiated in the European Parliament. Attempts to erode these rights are thwarted by the UK's membership of the European Union and the Conservatives do find this incredibly frustrating.
This is a clear case of Party politics ahead of good policy. Like the entire focus on cutting public spending, this is absolutely the wrong time to be creating uncertainty in Europe and insecurity for those 170,000 workers dependent upon EU trade. It is obvious that this is a case of a floundering Prime Minister reacting to the pressure from his Party's right wing. It is entirely possible that as a result of this incompetent coalition government intervention we could end up with the worst of both worlds; a lowering of standards at work which actually helps no-one, and a loss of thousands of jobs.
Kevin Rowan
Regional Secretary
Northern TUC
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