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City MP calls on ASDA to think again over threatening thousands with the sack

By 8 August 2019September 8th, 2022No Comments

Stephen Morgan MP, Member of Parliament for Portsmouth South calls on ASDA to think again over forced contract changes that will see staff in the Fratton Asda store lose out.

The issue over these controversial new contracts has been rumbling on for some months but it is due to come to a head in the coming weeks as staff across the country are forced by Asda bosses to sign changes to their contracts.  These changes will see them lose out on flexibility and holidays.

Many thousands of ASDA workers simply won’t be flexible in the way that ASDA bosses demand and imposing a new contract won’t change workers’ childcare, caring, studying, family and other outside work commitments.

One member of staff told their union that I haven’t signed up to Contract Six because I look after my disabled mum when I’m off work.”  This member is not alone, in response to a recent consultative ballot, 93% of respondents told GMB Union that they did not agree with the contract changes which were being forced on them.

Stephen Morgan MP said:

“I have met with employees affected, liaised with trade unions and visited the store at Fratton to speak with staff and managers.

It is deeply concerning that such a large employer in our city is leaving their staff with no choice other than to accept these new contracts or risk losing their job.  

Many Asda workers with caring commitments are going to be severely hit by any loss in flexibility – this is an awful position for the company to put dedicated staff in. Shoppers would be horrified to know Asda are leaving staff with no real choice. Asda should think again.

I understand some improvements to the original contract proposed have been won by GMB members in Asda but I’ll be calling on Asda to work constructively with the union, its members and workers in Asda to seek a better deal and secure a decent future for Asda workers in Portsmouth”.

The city MP has vowed to write to senior national bosses at Asda to continue his support to local employees.

For more details on support and advice, Asda workers should contact their local rep and visit https://www.gmb.org.uk/asda-update