Peterloo March & Rally

16th August 2019
Dear Stefan and Stephen
I am writing to you regarding the Peterloo March & Rally taking place in Manchester this
Sunday.
When our annual conference passed the GMATUC motion in March, calling for support
for the event, ourselves and our regional council were looking forward to working
together to have an inclusive and important commemorative event. That has been
evident in the support, financial and physical, from ourselves and affiliates.
However, the late addition of Chris Williamson to the speaking line up has raised
concerns. It brings unnecessary attention and is diversionary from the event that we
have agreed to support as a TUC.
I’ve contacted you a number of times this week, to express these concerns and seek a
change. I’ve said that if the speaking line up remains as it is, then we would have to
consider our support. I understand that affiliate unions in the region have done similar.
Given that there is no planned change to the line-up, I am letting you know that the TUC
North West will not be accepting our speaking slot and will be unable to support the
event moving forward. We believe that the changes would have the potential to bring
the TUC and others into disrepute.
This is regretful. The event was an opportunity to commemorate an important
anniversary in our movements history. This has unfortunately overshadowed that and
risks damaging relationships between many in the region.
Yours sincerely

 ay McKennaActing Regional Secretary
TUC
0151 482 2710JMcKenna@tuc.org