Unite Suspends Rayner, Threatens Labour Funding

Unite, the UK's largest trade union and a key Labour Party backer, has suspended Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner, accusing her of supporting a Labour-run council alleged to have used 'fire and rehire' tactics, imposed pay cuts of up to £8,000 on bin workers, and peddled lies about striking workers. Unite also suspended Birmingham council leader John Cotton and other Labour councillors. The union’s conference overwhelmingly voted to review its financial and political relationship with Labour, threatening to withdraw millions in funding. Rayner had urged workers to accept a pay deal, but Labour claims Unite's pay demands would undermine equal pay and discriminate against female workers. The ongoing Birmingham bin strike has led to months of rubbish piling up, public disruption, and health concerns. Unite's general secretary Sharon Graham condemned both the Labour council and government for failing workers, signaling a deepening rift with Labour.