Success for Tyne Tunnel worker campaign

12.10.00pm GMT Fri 27th Nov 2009

Lib Dem parliamentary spokesman for Newcastle East Greg Stone has welcomed news that an accord has been reached between the contractors working on the new Tyne Crossing and their sub-contractors on employment of foreign workers at below standard rates.

Greg raised the concerns of local workers and construction union UCATT, leading to meetings between the local authority partners in the scheme and the lead contractor, Bouyges in which assurances were sought about working arrangements on the project.

Greg said "I raised the matter after a local constituent approached me expressing concern about availability of work on site. UCATT also raised concerns about the matter. I am pleased that this has now been investigated and resolved, and I understand that the constituent in question is now working on the scheme, so I regard this as a welcome outcome."