SCORES of union members have taken to the streets to support a campaign to secure British jobs for British workers.
GMB and Unite members held a rally in Middlesbrough town centre on Saturday morning.
The rally was in support of the National Construction and Engineering Industry’s campaign.
Earlier this year, wildcat strikes took place across the country over the issue of foreign labour.
The dispute began when staff at an oil refinery in Lincolnshire walked out in protest at the recruitment of foreign workers.
Unions said Britons were not given the opportunity to apply for the jobs.
The dispute spread with workers employed by firms in other parts of the country, including Teesside, also calling unofficial strikes.
GMB regional organiser Jimmy Skivington, who organised the rally, said: “We just want to make a point and show the strength of feeling in the area.
“This is not about foreign workers, it is about foreign companies who are securing contracts in the UK and not allowing British workers to apply for the jobs.”
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here