Commenting on the mixed messages regarding self-isolation coming from government, Unite assistant general secretary Steve Turner said: 

“Unite would welcome any move by ministers to keep plants moving and our manufacturing members working, as long as it does so in a safe and considered manner. 

“If we are to prevent production lines closing and even more jobs going, then manufacturing industries need government to step up and work with employers and unions on the solution. 

“For plants to remain open now and in the months ahead, there needs to be faster testing, the continuation of free lateral flow tests for employers, a statutory sick pay rate that means people will actually stay off if ill and the extension of the furlough scheme. 

“All these things are needed to get the country, which is now leading the world for infection rates, through the next wave of the virus. 

“Unfortunately, the mixed messages emanating from government gives a strong impression that ministers are flying by the seat of their pants. 

“We need strong thoughtful leadership to prevent public health being put at risk while keeping UK PLC open, because we will all suffer if the government continues to make things up as it goes along.”

ENDS

Government warned test and trace isolation pings on ‘verge of shutting’ factories

During the coronavirus crisis Unite is working to keep workers and the public safe, to defend jobs and to protect incomes.

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Unite is Britain and Ireland’s largest union with members working across all sectors of the economy. The general secretary is Len McCluskey.