Trade talks ‘must uphold workers’ rights’

The TUC and the Norwegian Confederation of Trade Unions (LO-Norway) have jointly warned against a “race to the bottom” on workers’ rights and jobs.

They spoke out as negotiators from Norway and the UK met for trade talks between the two countries, and UK-EU talks continued.

The two organisations stated that trade deals must support a recovery from the coronavirus pandemic built on decent work, fair wages and the welfare of society.

They also agreed that it is in the interest of all workers that the UK secures a deal with the EU that locks in a high standard of rights, safeguards jobs by ensuring trade is as frictionless as possible, protects public services, and guarantees there is no hard border in Northern Ireland.

LO-Norway president Hans-Christian Gabrielsen said: “LO-Norway stand united with the TUC. We will not accept a race to the bottom for workers’ rights.

“We build our societies and work life on modern, just and safe regulations securing equal rights for all. Any trade deal will have to live up to the same standards. It’s time to deliver.”

https://www.tuc.org.uk/news/uk-and-norway-unions-call-trade-deals-deliver-workers