CBI challenged on equal rights

BRITAIN'S biggest trade union is writing to the main employers' organisation seeking an assurance that it has no plans to abandon support for equal opportunities for women and ethnic minorities.

Bill Morris, general secretary of the Transport and General Workers' Union, said it would be 'immoral' for the Confederation of British Industry to stop backing under-represented groups.

He was responding to a report in the Independent on Sunday that a confidential paper circulated to members of the CBI's employment policy committee argues that rising unemployment has reduced the need for employers to concern themselves with supporting equal opportunities.

'It is a cynical move which is a reflection of a lack of commitment to the disadvantaged at a time of mass unemployment,' Mr Morris said. 'Since the job market no longer required employers to give equal opportunities to disadvantaged groups like women and black people, companies could take the chance to increase exploitation.

'This is not just immoral but shortsighted since Britain needs the talents and skills of all its people if it is to build a modern and productive economy.'

Mr Morris called on Howard Davies, director general of the CBI, to dissociate himself from the document. He will write asking for an assurance that the CBI has no plans to abandon its commitment to equal opportunities for everyone.