University and postal strikes supported by Salford MP Rebecca Long-Bailey

Salford and Eccles MP, Rebecca Long-Bailey, is set to join university and postal workers striking throughout the region today.

This morning (25th November), University workers (UCU – University and College Union) striking on Salford University campus were joined by Ms Long-Bailey in a stand of solidarity.

This lunchtime, the MP arrived in St. Peter’s Square, Manchester, to address members of the UCU.

The strikes have been caused by the lack of wage increases due to inflation, which sits at the highest level in 41 years at 10.1%, according to figures from the Bank of England.

Ms Long-Bailey also tweeted her support for the Communication Workers Union (CWU) mail strikes and university strikes.

Solidarity with @CWUnews postal workers and @ucu universities members on strike today across Salford and Eccles and beyond #StandByYourPost #ucuRISING

— Rebecca Long-Bailey (@RLong_Bailey) November 24, 2022

University and postal workers are just two unions striking across Salford this week, with train drivers (ASLEF) set to strike tomorrow.

The Universities and College Union has been striking on Salford University campuses since yesterday morning.

Salford & Eccles MP @RLong_Bailey has been speaking at a St Peter’s Square rally in the last half-hour. @ucusalford @ucu @UM_UCU #UCUstrike #ucuRISING @QuaysNews @SalfordNow @ShockNews_ pic.twitter.com/F7DNGihVUt

— Adam Clark (@adamc433) November 25, 2022

The first of their strikes began yesterday, with today and the 30th November to see over 70,000 members striking in one of their largest strikes yet.

A spokesperson for the Union said: “UCU members do not want to strike but are doing so to save the sector and win dignity at work

“If university vice–chancellors don’t get serious, our message is simple – this bout of strike action will just be the beginning.”

The Communication Workers Union, which represents many Royal Mail workers, has proposed 11 days of strike action (including Christmas Eve) which could cause chaos in the run up the Christmas, especially those ordering last minute presents.

A CWU spokesperson said: “The determination of these people hasn’t swayed, they won’t accept their living standards being smashed.”