Getting Your Message Across
A number of readers in North Lanarkshire have already approached their local MPs - to ask for their support over equal pay.
So far, MPs seem to be sitting on the fence - trying their best not to get involved.
But an MPs job is to weigh up the issue - make an informed decision - and then speak up on behalf of their local constituents - without fear or favour.
What may be influencing Labour MPs in North Lanarkshire - is that the council is Labour-controlled as well - and has been for many years.
Understandably, Labour MPs' are reluctant to criticise their Labour council colleagues - but this cannot be taken to extremes- sometimes party loyalties have to be set aside.
Can anyone imagine Labour MPs being reluctant to take a stand - and speak their minds - if North Lanarkshire Council was run by the SNP, Lib Dems or Tories?
Labour MPs (and MSPs) may not want to criticise the behaviour of their local Labour council - but they should not allow party allegiance to prevent them standing up for what's right.
Because the facts on equal pay are unarguable - for years traditional female jobs lost out because of hidden bonuses paid only to the men.
That's why the Scottish Parliament has urged councils to settle outstanding cases - and that's why local MPs (and MSPs) should say what needs to be said.
So, don't be fobbed off with polite excuses from your MP or MSP.
Go and see your MP or MSP - debate the issues - and explain why it's perfectly reasonable to expect their support.
Action 4 Equality Scotland submitted detailed evidence on Equal Pay to the Scottish Parliament in 2009.
If you would like a copy to help get a message across to your MP or MSP, contact Mark Irvine at: markirvine@compuserve.com
So far, MPs seem to be sitting on the fence - trying their best not to get involved.
But an MPs job is to weigh up the issue - make an informed decision - and then speak up on behalf of their local constituents - without fear or favour.
What may be influencing Labour MPs in North Lanarkshire - is that the council is Labour-controlled as well - and has been for many years.
Understandably, Labour MPs' are reluctant to criticise their Labour council colleagues - but this cannot be taken to extremes- sometimes party loyalties have to be set aside.
Can anyone imagine Labour MPs being reluctant to take a stand - and speak their minds - if North Lanarkshire Council was run by the SNP, Lib Dems or Tories?
Labour MPs (and MSPs) may not want to criticise the behaviour of their local Labour council - but they should not allow party allegiance to prevent them standing up for what's right.
Because the facts on equal pay are unarguable - for years traditional female jobs lost out because of hidden bonuses paid only to the men.
That's why the Scottish Parliament has urged councils to settle outstanding cases - and that's why local MPs (and MSPs) should say what needs to be said.
So, don't be fobbed off with polite excuses from your MP or MSP.
Go and see your MP or MSP - debate the issues - and explain why it's perfectly reasonable to expect their support.
Action 4 Equality Scotland submitted detailed evidence on Equal Pay to the Scottish Parliament in 2009.
If you would like a copy to help get a message across to your MP or MSP, contact Mark Irvine at: markirvine@compuserve.com
