Unite Suspends Rayner, Rethinks Labour Ties

Unite the Union has suspended Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner's membership for her criticism of striking Birmingham bin workers and support for the Labour-led council accused of imposing pay cuts and deploying 'fire and rehire' tactics. The union's policy conference in Brighton overwhelmingly voted to review its longstanding relationship with the Labour Party, risking a significant political and financial split. Unite also suspended Birmingham council leader John Cotton and several Labour councillors. General Secretary Sharon Graham stated that Unite will challenge poor employment practices regardless of political affiliation. The ongoing dispute, which began in January, has left Birmingham's streets overflowing with rubbish and raised health concerns. The situation poses serious risks for Labour, which depends heavily on Unite's financial backing.