USDAW raises the pressure on M&S

Shopworkers' union USDAW last month stepped up its campaign for a role at Marks & Spencer, holding a conference for the retail chain's employees.

The union is not recognised by the company, which has set up an internal communications forum for employee consultation.

But staff told the conference that the forum was not addressing real concerns about changes in terms and conditions. "We have been inundated with calls and letters from M&S staff who want union involvement in the business," said national officer John Gorle.

Gorle was quick to point out that the conference "wasn't about knocking the company but pointing out that an independent consultation process that USDAW can provide is in the best commercial interests of M&S".

The union now hopes to open a dialogue with the company.