Skip to main content
They praised public sector workers — now they stab us in the back
The government’s claim that cuts are not ideological is a downright lie — the country needs more Civil Service workers not fewer. It's time for us to go on the offensive with a united response from the union movement, argues FRAN HEATHCOTE
anti-cuts protest

IN announcing their plans to cut Civil Service jobs by 91,000 over the next three years in the media, with no consultation or even informing their own departmental heads, this government demonstrated its utter contempt and disregard for a group of workers who made sure the country continued to function during the recent pandemic.

Public services are in a dire state after decades of cuts and privatisation. Public and Commercial Services union (PCS) members are working hard to keep services running in the face of increased demands arising from the pandemic and Brexit.

There is one particular thing that separates Civil Service workers from the government — we actually care about the services we deliver. Despite 40 years of job cuts and attacks on our pay, terms and conditions, including interminable wage freezes, theft of pension rights and more, we are still committed to delivering the best level of services possible to those who need them.

Morning Star call for advertising
Support the Morning Star
You have reached the free limit.
Subscribe to continue reading.
More from this author
Fran speaking
Features / 26 March 2025
26 March 2025
Public and Commercial Services union leader FRAN HEATHCOTE warns the Chancellor not to take an axe to the Civil Service – and points to measures that would genuinely improve the public sector
SPEAKING OUT: PCS president Fran Heathcote
International Women's Day 2025 / 8 March 2025
8 March 2025
As the government ploughs ahead with £3 billion in welfare cuts, arbitrary office-return mandates, and below-inflation pay rises, women will bear the brunt through deepening poverty and increased caring burdens, argues FRAN HEATHCOTE
16 - PCS
TUC Congress 2024 / 7 September 2024
7 September 2024
There is no stronger economy without the stronger wages that provide extra disposable income, which is why workers – including civil servants – must have their pay boosted in real terms, along with restored union rights and insourcing, says FRAN HEATHCOTE
PCS picket
Durham Miners' Gala / 12 July 2024
12 July 2024
As Labour takes power, PCS general secretary FRAN HEATHCOTE urges solidarity to push for workers’ rights and calls for pension justice and job security after years of Tory attacks on civil servants