At the beginning of 2009 the Israeli onslaught against the defenceless people of Gaza provoked universal outrage including strong protests from UNISON http://www.unison.org.uk/eFocus/special03.asp
This stance was endorsed overwhemingly at UNISON's NDC in June. http://www.unison.co.uk/news/news_view.asp?did=5475
Next week's TUC Congress will debate a motion from the FBU calling for practical solidarity with the Palestinian people including a boycott of imports from illegal Israeli settlements. In the Morning Star of 10 September 2009, Hugh Lanning DGS of PCS and Chair of the Palestine Solidarity Campaign set the scene for the congress debate and concluded that: Resolutions will not be enough.
We also need to mobilise trade union members in action. We need a campaign of focused and selective action against arms sales to Israel, against the illegal settlements and for a targeted consumer boycott. We need to get as many people involved as possible. Our aim is not to put jobs at risk, but to build political support and awareness. This is our generation's responsibility.
If we do not act now, we will forsake the proud role trade unions in this country have played in supporting workers in need. http://www.morningstaronline.co.uk/index.php/news/features/Our-generation-s-responsibility
UNSON Scotland and the STUC have led by example in calling for a boycott, disinvestment and sanctions [BDS] of the Israeli state in support of the Palestinian cause. http://www.unison-scotland.org.uk/stuc2009/22.html
Now is the time for the TUC to make a stand.
