NEWS RELEASE
STUC Calls on Trade Unions to Mobilise Against the BNP
The STUC and UNISON will call on trade unionists to mobilise against the threat of racist organisations hoping to gain ground in the forthcoming Scottish Parliament and Local Government elections. Speakers at the fringe meeting on Tuesday 15 April, will include Mohammed Asif of the Glasgow Refugee Action Group, and Frank Hont, UNISON's North West Regional Secretary.
Anita Shelton of the STUC Black Workers' Committee, will Chair the meeting. She will say:
"In Britain racism is rearing its ugly head once again. The poorest areas of our towns and cities are being targeted by far right political groups spreading their hatred and racist propaganda. The dangers are growing and all trade unionists must be ready to stand up for our communities against the threat of racism. We must act to ensure that BNP and National Front candidates in Glasgow, Airdrie and Aberdeen do not succeed."
At a Congress debate on Wednesday 16 April, the Black Workers' Committee will also:
· Call on all candidates in the forthcoming elections to refuse to share a platform with candidates from such racist groups; and · Call on the STUC to mobilise trade unionists to campaign locally and nationally against all far right extremists and fascist groups seeking political representation within Scotland. /.....
Tel: 0141 337 8100 / Fax: 0141 337 8101 / Email: info@stuc.org.uk
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Notes to Editors:
(1) STUC Annual Congress takes place in Eden Court Theatre, Inverness, between 14 and 17 April 2003.
For media enquiries, contact: Tracey White
(2) The fringe meeting will take place at 12.45 pm on Tuesday 15 April 2003 in the Eden Court Theatre, Inverness.
(3) The Congress debate on tackling racism takes place on the afternoon of Wednesday 16 April 2003.