THE European Union is not perfect but as lifelong trade unionists from different unions we’re supporting the campaign for the UK to remain in the European Union.

Outlandish claims and counter claims during the referendum debate have been a huge turn off for many and have failed to address issues affecting millions of people including health and safety, equality, consumer protection, the environment and workers rights. We often hear that the UK is dominated by European regulation, yet only 13% of our laws come from the EU.

After years of trade union campaigning, thanks to the EU, workers rights in Britain and beyond include:- The rights to 20 days paid annual leave; not to work more than 48 hours a week, to be paid time off for antenatal appointments; the right to protection for pregnant women and mothers in the workplace; up to 18 weeks parental leave per child; to time off for urgent family reasons; to equal pay for work of equal value between men and women and the right to equal treatment for part time, fixed term and agency workers with other employees.

In the UK some of these rights are strengthened by domestic legislation but as trade unionists we believe these rights do not go anywhere near far enough. “Brexit” campaigners have failed to say how workers' rights would be protected if Britain was to leave the EU. During the 2015 general election the Conservatives talked about a “bonfire of regulations” including those related to workers' rights or health and safety. The Conservatives have introduced draconian legislation to further restrict the unions and workers’ rights. If the UK votes to leave it seems inevitable we will see further attempts to attack trade unions and drive down working conditions. A vote to remain does not mean that we should accept the status quo – we need to vote to stay in and fight for a better Europe, one based on greater democracy and a commitment to social justice.

Martin McMulkin

Tom Hanley

Joan Pritchard-Jones

Alan Johnson

Stephen Dickinson

Garry Pritchard

Martin Challender