GPMU members to choose merger partner

Print union GPMU will shortly conduct a consultative ballot of members on merging with either manufacturing union Amicus or the T&G general union. Any actual merger would require a further full ballot.

The union will recommend that members choose Amicus following a decision by the union's executive council last month.

General secretary Tony Dubbins said: "Amicus members work with our members in printing, papermaking, packaging, newspapers, publishing and the media. We hold joint agreements with them in many companies.

"A merger will create one union across the industries we cover, making a stronger union for our members, protecting and advancing their interests at work."

Like the GPMU, Amicus is a predominantly private sector and manufacturing union. Dubbins also pointed to the "lay member representation only" at Amicus's main conference and on its executive council, and the fact that members' subs would be reduced to £2.12 a week in total.

The GPMU would become an autonomous industrial sector within the union, and Amicus has said it would transfer 20,000 of its members into the new sector.

Amicus general secretary Derek Simpson said: "The decision to recommend to their members to open formal discussions with a view to merging with Amicus provides an historic opportunity for the trade union and labour movement."