Scottish Government confirms commitment to rights of trade unions

Wellbeing Economy Secretary Neil Gray, will today focus on The Scottish Government’s collaborative approach to industrial relations and the rights of trade unions.

He will underline its commitment to fair work and the rights of trade unions pledging continuing opposition to the UK Government’s Strikes (Minimum Service Levels) Act.

Mr Gray will also outline The Scottish Government’s position that the right to strike for fair pay and safe work conditions should be an integral part of the rights of citizens all over the UK.

Speaking ahead of the Scottish Parliament debate, Mr Gray said: “It is the Scottish Government’s long-standing position that a progressive approach to industrial relations along with stronger – not weaker – protections for workers is at the heart of a fairer society and prosperous economy.

“The UK Government’s Minimum Service Levels Act is unwanted, ineffective and fails to respect devolution. We will continue to promote a Scottish approach which recognises that while disputes will occur, they are best resolved in an atmosphere of goodwill. We have no intention of asking employers to issue work notices.

“Our Motion sends a strong signal that in Scotland, we do things differently. We are intent on building a prosperous, fair economy based on dialogue, not dispute, and collaboration, not confrontation.”

The Scottish Government Motion for today’s parliamentary debate:

“That the Scottish Parliament considers the Strikes (Minimum Service Levels) Act to be unnecessary, unwanted and ineffective; further considers that the legislation encroaches on the devolved responsibilities of this parliament in matters relating to health, transport, fire and rescue and education, and any associated secondary legislation which could be applied in Scotland; notes that its measures seek to undermine legitimate trade union activity and do not respect Fair Work principles; recognises that trade unions are key social and economic partners in Scotland in responding to the cost of living crisis, creating a wellbeing economy and working towards a just transition to net-zero; and agrees that a progressive approach to industrial relations and to trade unionism is at the heart of a fairer, more successful society and therefore makes clear its opposition to the Strikes (Minimum Service Levels) Act and any associated secondary legislation which could be applied in Scotland.”