INDUSTRIAL RELATIONS AT WARBURTONS

That this House welcomes the agreement on pay, terms and conditions between Warbutons and employee members of the Bakers, Food and Allied Workers Union; notes that the deal involves a substantial increase in the basic hourly rate for most workers, more stable shift patterns to allow workers greater ability to manage their lives and increased learning opportunities; commends both parties on the productive spirit in which negotiations were held; believes this example demonstrates that responsible employers recognise the benefit of investing in the workforce, preserving high product standards and avoiding a race to the bottom in pay and conditions; and therefore calls on other employers in the food manufacturing sector to recognise trade unions and negotiate in a similarly constructive manner to mutual advantage of the business and the workers.