Reform UK‑Led Councils Face a Union Uprising
When it comes to public sector wages and perks, workers in councils run by Reform UK are literally flocking to the GMB. They’re worried a new government mandate will trim pay and strip benefits.
Where the Membership Surge Is Happening
- Nottinghamshire
- Doncaster
- Lancashire
- Staffordshire
- Durham
- Derbyshire
Smith’s Sharp Talk in Brighton
At the GMB’s annual conference in Brighton, General Secretary Gary Smith launched a scathing critique of Reform UK.
“They’ve spent a lifetime hurling hate at trade unions and the hard‑won rights that keep us all afloat—decent pay, solid conditions, the protections that matter,” Smith said.
“Why do we always see the posh, private‑school types play the working‑class hero? They’re the ones who adore banks, opportunists and anti‑union riff-raff. If Reform are ‘pro‑worker,’ why did they vote against safeguards against unfair dismissal, bans on re‑hire, universal sick pay, fair pay for carers and the right to organize in places like Amazon?”
“Now they’re running town halls and the first move is to sack council staff. It’s high time their snooty attitude about so‑called ‘gold‑plated’ pensions is exposed. If you ask a care worker or a refuse collector, will they brag about a glittering pension?”
“Reform’s derision of low‑paid public‑sector staff is utterly disgraceful.”
Rachel Harrison’s View
National Officer Rachel Harrison told the PA news agency that the numbers speak for themselves. “Reform keeps shouting it’s on workers’ side, but people are choosing to join unions because they suspect Farage and the crew will snatch away the very conditions they promise to protect.”
Why Workers Are Joining the GMB
- Fear of wage cuts
- Potential loss of job security
- Dismissal of crucial benefits
- Swarming protests against “gold‑plated” pension myths
In short, while Reform may talk big, the real power shift is happening on the ground: workers are banding together with the GMB, ready to fight for the pay and conditions they truly deserve.
