TGWU aims to fight
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driver 'intimidation' THE FUTURE
by Steve McQueen • The Transport & General Workers Union has launched five initiatives designed to end the "bully boy" tactics and "intimidation" of LGV drivers by their bosses.
The centrepiece of what the TGWU says is a plan to make LGV drivers a significant issue at the next General Election will be a demonstration in London on 14 June.
TGWU general-secretary Bill Morris says a major parliamentary lobbying campaign begins next month which aims to achieve legislation reducing drivers working hours and demanding greater levels of enforcement.
Other moves include research into stress-related health problems, employment conditions and working practices. The report into drivers' health has been commissioned; the study into working conditions will be published in May.
The year-long focus on drivers will culminate with a con ference in the autumn. Nearly 300 drivers from around the UK attended the conference launching the campaign on 19 March at Cleethorpes.
The drivers voiced fears about operational safety in the wake of developing trends. They claimed that road safety is being compromised by cuts in delivery times, an increase in working hours, expansion of performance-related pay schemes and scrimping on vehicle maintenance schedules.