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THE GMB threw its weight behind pro-refugee campaigns and community groups across the country today.
Britain’s third largest union will look at joining local and national campaigns to counter racist anti-migrant Tory rhetoric.
Delegates at its annual conference backed a motion calling on the union to partnering with agencies and political networks defending the rights of refugees.
Moving the motion, Manchester Central delegate Marek Krolik said: “We have a chance to stop the lies and the madness and the cruelty” by booting the Tories out of government next month.
Seconding, fellow branch delegate Tom Williams said: “I meet with many families seeking asylum … almost all of them have horrific stories to tell.
“Most are desperate to work, many are unable to get the health care support they need.”
The union is to lobby the government to open proper channels for asylum-seekers to make legitimate claims for the right to enter the country without resorting to people traffickers.
GMB executive member Dean Gilligan said: “The central executive committee has been incredibly concerned by the rhetoric of the government and the physical treatment of refugees but acutely exemplified by the conditions of the Bibby Stockholm.
“We have to get these desperately cruel Tories out of government, the use of a barge whose owners have historic ties to the transatlantic slave trade, according to the Refugee Council, is testament to how nasty this party is.
“We will consult with members who work with refugees and asylum-seekers, using their expertise to help formulate solutions to issues raised and secondly we will need to probably assess any partner agencies and community support groups we work with to make sure align with our work and values.”