UNISON needs to pressure the government to strengthen the Employment Rights Bill, union delegates insisted today.

National executive committee member April Ashley said the motion was “an important step forward but we have to fight hard for any progress. Nothing is given to us on a plate.”

She told conference that the 2016 Trade Union Act “needs to be repealed now,” even in the face of business pressure not to repeal.

LGBT+ conference delegate Eilleen Best said: “The new Bill has the potential to be a turning point.”

Becky Everett said it offered a “real chance to rebuild workers power” and “removes the shackles on our right to strike and statutory recognition.

“The Bill also opens the door to sectoral bargaining.”

She added that we must recognise that “this Bill exists because of the tireless work of our union.

“We don’t agree on everything with Labour but when they deliver we must acknowledge it.”

Vicky Redwood from Bristol said: “We have to be prepared to hold the Labour Party’s feet to the fire if they don’t deliver for working people.”