Opting-Out Made Easy
Here's some more information about opting out of the political levy.
I've updated the names and contact details of the regional secretaries involved - as there have been some changes since the post was first published back in 2010.
I can't imagine that the trade unions would make things difficult for members who decide to hold onto their hard earned cash - but if they do, be sure to let me know.
I'm sure the press would be interested to hear the details.
Opting-Out Made Easy (22 October 2010)
In a recent post I promised to provide contact details - for any readers wishing to opt out of paying a political levy to the Labour party.
Now the official way to do this is very cumbersome and involves tracking down some local union rep within your branch - whom no one knows - and who may not even understand what you're talking about.
So the best and quickest way to do this would be simply to send an e-mail to your union regional secretary - and politely ask that person to sort things out on your behalf.
Here are the people you may wish to contact:
GMB - Harry Donaldson: harry.donaldson@gmb.org.uk
Unite - Pat Rafferty: pat.rafferty@unitetheunion.org
Unison - Mike Kirby: m.kirby@unison.co.uk
All you need to do is to say something along the lines of:
"Dear Regional Secretary
Labour Party Political Levy
I would like to stop paying a political levy to the Labour party with immediate effect - and would like to union to return this money to me in future.
My union membership number is - xxxxxxx
My address and post code is - xxxxxxxxx
My union branch is - xxxxxxxx
Please action this request on my behalf.
Yours sincerely
A Member"
And that's about all you need to say really - just remember to date the e-mail and include your union membership number etc.
For obvious reasons - keep a copy of what you send for future reference.
The unions should not be putting any obstacles in your way - if you wish to exercise your right to opt-out of paying the political levy - if they do, let me know.
