CONFIDENTIAL
FROM:
ADRIAN SMITH
KB C40 14
Miss Marsden
Wisla
a 15/6
Mr Sane (para 11) RM 14/0 Denn (alo (cra !!)
い
PS/LORD BRABAZON
15/9
159
International Labour Adviser
DATE:
12 SEPTEMBER 1989
CC:
SIR JOHN FRETWELL
MR TEASDALE
PUSD (DSE & CN) Soviet Department SAFD
HKD
TRADE UNION CONGRESS:
BLACKPOOL, 1989
I was the FCO Observer for the Congress over the period 4-8 September and can report briefly; I should be pleased to provide an augmentation of any point.
1.
2.
Summary
A low key, self-imposed, subdued and dull conference; the least newsworthy in a decade or so; rise in interest in European Community affairs, particularly on the advent of 1992 and the proposed Social Charter; looking all ways on defence issues.
3. General
One highlight was the TUC call generally for a complete reform of the UK's present employment and industrial relations legislation and particularly for trades union immunity from civil legal action in tort. Another was its reaffirmation to phase out nuclear power over the next 15 years. The General Council was reorganised which had the effect of increasing the role of moderates, smaller unions and women on it. But overall the Congress was one of restraint and an attempt to present itself as on its best behaviour.
4.
Defence
The Congress passed a long motion which supported multi-lateral, bilateral and unilateral nuclear disarmament. Previously TUC policy was affixed to a strictly unilateral stance and from that standpoint was a softening in its position. The Secretary of State has already commented that such a move was "a play with words".
5.
GCHQ
This was not a subject for debate this year other than a few old ritual comments in other debates. There were no ex-GCHQ personnel on the platfrom this year.
16.
CONFIDENTIAL