MORE than 40 European union leaders have announced their commitment to the fundamental right to strike in a joint declaration on the eve of the 138^th Durham Miners’ Gala.

The TUC backed the new Durham Declaration as it held an international roundtable today marking 40 years since the 1984-5 miners’ strike.

It stated: “Industrial action is an essential part of the global fundamental right to the freedom of association and democracy in the world of work. Without it, exploitation can go unchecked, increasing inequalities and damaging workers’ pay and health.