4th February 2009 - Labour Euro-MPs declare solidarity with all workers in Lindsey strike

Local Labour Euro-MP Linda McAvan has joined with colleagues from Italy and Portugal today to endorse a joint statement on the strike at the Lindsey oil refinery, urging all sides to find a “positive solution”.

The MEPs have spoken out as news is breaking of a possible negotiated settlement. They affirm their commitment to free movement of labour and capital within the EU, but stress the importance of preventing “social dumping” – the name used to describe companies who move from one country to another, or use legal loopholes, to exploit lower standards of pay and worker rights.

The statement, which has been adopted by the European Parliament Socialist Group was drafted by UK Labour MEPs and Italian and Portuguese Socialist MEPs. Socialist Euro MEPs have met to express their solidarity with British, Portuguese and Italian workers in the context of the Lindsey industrial dispute, and resolved that: 

"It is necessary to find a positive solution to the Lindsey Oil case. It is vital that the right conditions are created to avoid situations of tension and hostility between workers and to foster solidarity.

We must maintain the internal market and the freedom of movement of capital and labour - the principles which have given unparalleled prosperity and are key to our countries' recovery from the financial downturn. 

The recent European Court Judgments make it necessary that we have clarity on the current legal situation and within this context there is a need to review the Posted Workers' Directive, in order to avoid social dumping.

We urge the European Commission to be proactive in the midst of this economic downturn, particularly in relation to its effects on workers and their families."