Wellbeing Economy Secretary , will today highlight the
Scottish Government’s positive and collaborative approach to
industrial relations and the rights of trades unions.
He will underline its commitment to fair work and the rights of
trades unions and pledge continuing opposition to the UK
Government’s Strikes (Minimum Service Levels) Act.
He 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 in Scotland and across
the UK.
Speaking ahead of a 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.”
Background
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.
