Hannett elected shopworkers' leader

Members of shopworkers' union USDAW have elected John Hannett as their new general secretary.

Hannett has been the deputy general secretary for the past six years and was supported by current general secretary Sir Bill Connor, who is retiring in May.

Hannett received over 42% of the vote, defeating national officer Val Pugh and left winger Maureen Madden. Turnout was 13.6%.

As deputy general secretary, Hannett was responsible for recruitment, and the union's membership has grown from 290,000 in 1997 to over 330,000. He recently led the high-profile Freedom from Fear campaign against violence at work. He is also a member of the Labour Party's national executive committee.

Sir Bill said: "I'd like to congratulate John on his election victory and wish him every success in leading USDAW over the next few years."

Results

John Hannett 19,063

Val Pugh 13,729

Maureen Madden 12,313

Turnout 13.6%