Keir Starmer is under scrutiny regarding the sway of union leaders over his administration as analysis reveals they constitute a third of Labour’s governing body. Thirteen union leaders, including the head of the rail union that initiated strikes 48 hours after a 14.25% pay rise offer, are part of the National Executive Committee (NEC). The NEC, which includes 39 voting members, meets frequently with Starmer and senior ministers, such as his deputy Angela Rayner.
The NEC is responsible for providing strategic direction to the party and overseeing policy-making. Critics argue there’s a potential conflict of interest for the Prime Minister and Ms Rayner, as they negotiate with individuals they sit alongside on the NEC.
This situation might explain why the Prime Minister has approved substantial public sector pay increases without conditions. Previously, it was uncovered that 213 of Starmer’s 404 MPs received union funding for their election campaigns, totalling £1.8 million following the May election announcement.
Labour infighting breaks out as leading NEC member brands Sir Keir Starmer’s party ‘incapable of tackling racism and Islamophobia’ after far-right thuggery leaves nation in shock
via https://t.co/3o9XcXzGwl https://t.co/KLPs3gU746— Key Boris (@KeyBoris1) August 18, 2024
Additionally, Cabinet ministers have received over £500,000 in union donations over the past five years, with Ms Rayner receiving more than £144,000 since 2019. Former Conservative minister Sir John Hayes expressed concern about the potential conflict of interest for ministers on the NEC, highlighting the difficulty in remaining impartial during negotiations over wages and conditions.
Former Conservative leader Sir Iain Duncan Smith criticised Labour, suggesting it remains a traditional trade union-supporting party rather than a Blairite one. Mick Whelan, leader of the train drivers’ union Aslef, is also on the NEC. Transport Secretary Louise Haigh, a close ally of Whelan, approved a 14.25% pay increase for train drivers over three years without requiring system reforms. Shortly after, Aslef announced further rail strikes on the East Coast Mainline, raising questions about Starmer’s control over his union “paymasters” early in his tenure.
The Labour Party was approached for comment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news
How many union barons are on Labour’s National Executive Committee?
There are 13 union barons on Labour’s National Executive Committee.
What percentage of Labour’s NEC is made up of union barons?
Union barons account for one-third of Labour’s NEC.
Why are critics concerned about union barons on Labour’s NEC?
Critics suggest it creates a conflict of interest for ministers negotiating public sector wages.
How much money have Labour MPs received from unions for elections?
Labour MPs received £1.8 million from union bosses for elections.
Who is the Labour MP with the highest union donations?
Angela Rayner has received the highest total, over £144,000 since 2019.
