Unite calls on bank bosses to follow Antony Jenkins’ example
Unite, Britain's biggest union, says Barclays' chief executive, Antony Jenkins' decision to waive his bonus is 'refreshing' and is calling on the CEO of Lloyds, Antonio Horta-Osorio and HSBC CEO, Stuart Gulliver to follow suit.
Unite says the waived bonuses should be used in a socially responsible way which could include tackling low pay in Britain's banks where many low paid staff have to claim government tax credits to supplement their income.
Unite national officer, Dominic Hook said:
"It's refreshing to see Anthony Jenkins waive his bonus. It should send a message to the high rollers in banking. Austerity has been forced on ordinary people because of the colossal errors of the banking elite. They have no business taking obscene bonuses. We urge Lloyds’ Antonio Horta-Osorio and HSBC's Stuart Gulliver not to think too long about their bonuses and follow suit.
"Innocent bank workers in call centres and branches up and down the country are having their jobs cut, pensions slashed and terms and conditions eroded. Plus many of these banks have been embroiled in scandals concerning their business practices. The bonuses should be redistributed and used in a socially responsible way including tackling the appalling low pay of the ordinary workers in Britain's banks.”
ENDS
Contact: Ciaran Naidoo on 07768 931 315
Unite is Britain and Ireland’s largest trade union with 1.5 million members working across all sectors of the economy. The general secretary is Len McCluskey.
-01.png){kind=spacer}