Crackdown on construction bosses who ‘blacklist’ union members in Barking and Dagenham

Construction companies that “blacklist” labourers who are trade union members will be banned from working with Barking and Dagenham Council.

Construction companies that “blacklist” labourers who are trade union members will be banned from working with Barking and Dagenham Council in the future.

The move comes after national research conducted by the GMB trade union found more than 3,000 workers – some of whom were from Barking and Dagenham – had been identified by various private sector firms as being trade union activists.

Independent watchdog the Information Commissioner’s Office seized a database in 2009, held by 44 companies, which was allegedly being used by firms unwilling to offer jobs to union members.

During the full Council Assembly meeting on Tuesday, councillors agreed unanimously to ensure companies working for the authority do not discriminate against union members.

Council leader Cllr Liam Smith said: “Black-listing of trade union members is abhorrent and must be condemned.

“The right to belong to, and be active in, a trade union is a fundamental right in a modern democracy.

“Barking and Dagenham Council will not tolerate blacklisting, in any shape or form.”

The council are also set to monitor companies’ sub-contractors, he added, to crack down on the “despicable practice”.