TUC head urges Amazon workers to “vote yes” in “historic” union recognition ballot

As workers at Amazon’s warehouse in Coventry vote today (Monday) on whether to join the GMB union after a long-running battle for union recognition, TUC General Secretary Paul Nowak said:  

“Amazon workers deserve to be treated with dignity and respect. But for far too long they have been used like throwaway labour. 

“My message to staff in Coventry is simple. This is a historic chance for you and your workmates to win better pay and conditions – and a truly independent voice at work. 

“Every vote counts. Make sure you vote yes.” 

Commenting on Amazon’s tactics during the recognition campaign, Paul added 

“Amazon has tried every union-busting trick under the sun to stop workers organising for a fair deal at work.  

“Their bully-boy behaviour is yet another reminder of why Labour’s New Deal for working people is so badly needed. 

“The Tories’ race to the bottom on employment standards has allowed good employers to be undercut by the bad.” 

Rally at Amazon headquarters  

Union campaigners will gather together for a rally later today at 5pm outside Amazon’s headquarters. 

There will be speeches by GMB National Secretary Andy Prendergast and TUC Assistant General Secretary Kate Bell. 

The rally will take place at 1 Principal Place, London EC2A 2FA.