RAIL union RMT has joined the Boycott Barclays campaign, which targets the bank over its investments in military equipment companies supplying Israel with weaponry used to devastate Gaza.

The union also vowed not to use Barclays services and to make sure it avoids putting money into such shareholdings and other investments. 

RMT will write to Barclays calling for the severing of its financial ties with Israel. 

Kings Cross delegate Annila Saghir said: “We need to support this motion because the power of collective action and supporting human rights can lead to positive change.

“Palestine is a trade union issue and we must act now.”

Mark Hall from Wakefield and Healey Mills said: “By investing and servicing these arms companies, Barclays is directly profiting from Israel attacking the Palestinians.”

He went on to say that thousands of Barclays customers have closed their accounts with the bank and that a boycott would have a significant impact.