New bodies to offer advice in key sectors

The two major Spanish union confederations, CCOO and UGT, have signed an agreement with the employers and the Spanish ministry of industry, aimed at improving the country's competitive position.

Under the agreement, signed on 19 April, new "observatories" will monitor developments and provide expert advice in six key industrial sectors: textiles, chemicals, motor vehicles, motor components, capital equipment manufacture, and electrical and electronic goods. The government-financed observatories will provide a forum where unions and employers can discuss the issues facing each sector.