|
Download the full pamphlet: Trade Unionists say NO to the EU Constitution (PDF, 1 MB) FORWARDFrom its very inception the proposed EU Constitution was undemocratic, developed almost single-handedly by Valery Giscard d’Estaing and foisted upon a “Convention” without one vote being taken. This Constitution would not give trade unionists any new rights. But it would enforce mass privatisation and give big corporations powers to increase the exploitation of workers and the environment. Manufacturing industry would not be saved, but further reduced under the regionalisation provisions of the Constitution. As life-long trade unionists, experience has taught us that letting capital rip regardless of the consequences will not produce jobs, decent infrastructure or stability. Those in favour of this undemocratic privateer’s charter often describe people with real democratic concerns as “anti-European”. However, those that support anything that comes out of Brussels are called “pro-European”. These are gross distortions and an insult. We are pro-European and take a global perspective, which means that our solidarity extends beyond this continent. A militarised centralist Europe, run by an unaccountable corporate elite, will increase unfair trade with the undeveloped world, increase the prospect of war and remove democratic control over all our futures. Ultimately, any government that hands over power to a degree envisaged in this Constitution is in effect no longer a government. Whatever views trade unionists may have about the European project, the proposed Constitution is a step too far. A different and more democratic future is worth fighting for, one in which the nations of the world co-operate through the United Nations. BOB CROW RMT General Secretary
|