Minister didn't want to face AWB protesters
Tuesday 05 February 2013
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EmailFarm workers and supporters demonstrated last Saturday outside Farming Minister and Lib Dem MP David Heath's Frome surgery.
Mr Heath is charged with abolishing the Agricultural Wages Board (AWB), which has statutory powers to enforce a wages structure, housing and rent controls in England and Wales.
He has claimed that his previous opposition to abolishing the AWB was nullified by the minimum wage legislation. In fact he signed an early day motion in support of the AWB after the minimum wage was established.
The government's rush to dissolve the AWB contrasts with its procrastinations over other issues such as banking controls and tax havens.
They've even presided over cuts in river maintenance and inaction over neonicotinoid seed dressings which disorientates insects feeding on nectar and pollen.
But given the interests involved, it's no surprise.
John Burbidge
Chair, Unite Tolpuddle Branch
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