Usdaw members welcome reforms

Co-op workers who are members of the Usdaw retail union have welcomed the decision to reform the group’s senior management structure. The reforms were proposed by City minister Lord Myners following the discovery of a £1.5 billion hole in Co-op finances last year, which forced the group to sell off parts or all of its farming, pharmacies and banking divisions. Lord Myners said the board’s structure was responsible for much of the chaos.

Group members voted by 84% in favour of the shake-up, which will see the number of elected board members slashed. But a 100-strong council made up of members will be able to call the board to account.

John Gorle, Usdaw’s national officer representing Co-op employees, said: “It has been a long process but we hope the business can now move forward whilst retaining the mutual status of the Co-op group.”

www.co-operative.coop/corporate/press/press-releases/headline-news/sgm-result

www.usdaw.org.uk/newsevents/news/2014/sep/usdawwelcomesthecoopmembe.aspx