Union launches anti-cuts campaign

THE STUC union has called on the UK Government to take action "immediately" to stop job losses and the economy plummeting back into recession.

The There is a Better Way campaign, which waslaunched today, aims to challenge the idea that cuts are the only way to bring down the deficit and survive the economic crisis.

Campaigners suggest using stimulus measures to grow the economy and are calling for fair taxes, a living wage and the protection of jobs and services.

The campaign was launched by the Scottish Trades Union Congress (STUC) in Glasgow today.

Speaking about the UK Government's approach to cutting the deficit, Grahame Smith, general secretary of the STUC, said today: "It is avoidable, it is unfair and it could tip the economy back into recession.

"We believe there needs to be measures immediately to stimulate the economy. If the Government does not invest, our economy is in trouble.

"It is the case that the economy is not going to grow in the way it needs to grow to generate enough employment. That is not acceptable.

"There has not been a real debate about alternatives."

Mr Smith said other options could include a tax on financial transactions.

He continued: "A key aim of this campaign is to nail the myths being peddled by the coalition Government, but we are calling on the Scottish and local government to show leadership by fully engaging in a campaign to oppose the austerity measures.

"But this is not a narrow anti-cuts campaign, it is a Better Way campaign. STUC will offer the chance for Scotland's communities and voluntary organisations to come together to campaign alongside STUC for a better way and to play a major role in shaping its direction."

Mr Smith also said there needed to be proper support to help get "victims of the economy" back into work.

A poster will be launched later this month for the campaign and a demonstration will be held in Edinburgh on October 23.