Mick Lynch calls for union control of UK economy amid Labour leadership

Mick Lynch, the leader of the RMT union, has called for a significant increase in union influence across the UK economy, particularly now that the Labour Party is in power. Speaking at a fringe event during Labour's first conference back in power, Lynch emphasized the need for unions to be present in every workplace, reminiscent of the levels of influence seen in the 1970s and 80s. He argued that the current lack of union presence in various sectors limits their ability to advocate effectively for workers' rights. Lynch's remarks came amid a backdrop of union leaders exerting pressure on the Labour government, including a notable rejection of a government pay offer by the Royal College of Nursing. He praised key Labour figures, such as Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner, and expressed the necessity for union support to ensure the implementation of a hardline agenda. Lynch's vision includes the complete organization of the UK economy by trade unions, which he believes is essential for protecting workers' interests. The call for expanded union powers has raised concerns among business leaders, who fear that the proposed New Deal for Working People could impose burdensome regulations. Lynch warned that if the government attempts to dilute this deal, unions would not hesitate to organize strikes, continuing a trend of labor actions that have persisted since 1981. Critics, including former Tory leader Sir Iain Duncan Smith, have suggested that Labour may struggle to maintain independence from union influence, likening the current situation to past Labour governments that were heavily reliant on union support. As unions push for significant changes, the dynamics between the Labour government and union leaders will be closely watched.