TUC response to Queens Speech

Commenting on todayís Queenís Speech TUC General Secretary Brendan Barber said:

On corporate manslaughter

The TUC welcomes the inclusion of the Corporate Manslaughter Bill in the Queenís Speech, scotching rumours that this much delayed bill had fallen victim again to Whitehall infighting. Relatives of those who have lost their lives in avoidable disasters deserve nothing less.

On smoking at work

The TUC welcomes new legislation that will outlaw smoking in most workplaces. While we would like the law to go further, this is an important step and brings nearer the day that every employee is guaranteed a smoke free atmosphere at work.

On working parents

Working parents will make big gains from both the provision of wrap around care and the extension of maternity leave and pay. Union campaigning has helped bring about this strategic extension of the welfare state, which could well prove to be this governmentís lasting legacy.