LRC solidarity letter to the PCS

29th July 2004

Dear Mark,

I am writing on behalf of the Labour Representation Committee (LRC) and Socialist Campaign Group of Labour MPs (SCG) to send our wholehearted support for the action taken by your union members today.

It is clear that the Government is dependent upon having a professional fully trained and skilled civil service to implement successfully its policy programme.

It is no way to reward the dedication and professional approach of PCS members in implementing the Government’s policies by refusing to pay their staff an adequate wage, and by threatening tens of thousands of job cuts.

I am calling today upon the Government to settle the outstanding pay claims and to draw back from these threats of job cuts and compulsory redundancies. The Government should recognise the excellent and dedicated service it receives from its employees.

Members of the LRC and SCG will be joining PCS members on the picket line in solidarity.

Yours in comradeship and support,

John McDonnell MP
Chair, Labour Representation Committee
and Socialist Campaign Group

- ends -