Below is a joint press statement from the leaders of the biggest trade unions in the UK backing Jeremy Corbyn. There is also a petition of confidence in him that has already gained over 133,000 signatures since its launch yesterday afternoon.
A statement from union leaders backing Jeremy Corbyn to continue as Labour leader.
The Prime Minister’s resignation has triggered a Tory leadership crisis. At the very time we need politicians to come together for the common good, the Tory party is plunging into a period of argument and infighting. In the absence of a government that puts the people first Labour must unite as a source of national stability and unity.
It should focus on speaking up for jobs and workers’ rights under threat, and on challenging any attempt to use the referendum result to introduce a more right-wing Tory government by the backdoor.
The last thing Labour needs is a manufactured leadership row of its own in the midst of this crisis and we call upon all Labour MPs not to engage in any such indulgence.
Len McCluskey, General Secretary, Unite the Union
Dave Prentis, General Secretary, UNISON
Tim Roache, General Secretary, GMB
Dave Ward, General Secretary, CWU
Brian Rye, Acting General Secretary, UCATT
Manuel Cortes, General Secretary, TSSA
Mick Whelan, General Secretary, ASLEF
Matt Wrack, General Secretary, FBU
John Smith, General Secretary, Musicians’ Union
Gerry Morrissey, General Secretary, BECTU
Ronnie Draper, General Secretary, BFAWU
Chris Kitchen, General Secretary, NUM
Great to see the Unions backing Corbyn. Thanks.
I don’t understand why UCU is not also supporting Jeremy Corbyn