UK Labour Party Chief Condemns Strikers

The leader of the British Labour Party has criticized that strike action that has seriously affected thousands of schools, as well as airports, seaports and other public sector services.

Ed Miliband said that although he can understand the fury of teachers and other civil servants over their pension reforms, he insisted the strike is “wrong” since unions and government officials are still negotiating over the measures.

Speaking at the Local Government Association conference in Birmingham in the Midlands, Miliband said: I understand the anger of workers who feel they are being singled out by a reckless and provocative Government. But I believe this action is wrong.

He added: Negotiations are ongoing. So it is a mistake to go on strike because of the effect on the people who rely upon these services. And it is mistake because it will not help to win the argument. The Labour Party I lead will always be the party of the mums and dads who know the value of a day's education.

Miliband’s comments were criticized at union rallies in London. At least once speaker branded Miliband a “disgrace” especially since Labour has traditionally supported the rights of workers,

However, Miliband has also condemned the coalition Government for the way they have handled the ongoing fiscal crisis.

This disruption could have been avoided if ministers had been willing to engage with the concerns of those affected by changes to public sector pensions. The Government's handling of the issue has been high-handed and arrogant, he said.

Miliband has called for a compromise from both sides.
My message… is this: what the British people want and expect is that you now get back to the negotiating table and redouble your efforts to find an agreed solution, he said.

Put aside the rhetoric, and avoid any further disruption to parents and the public.

Meanwhile, the government has dismissed the strike’s effects.

A spokesman for Downing Street said there had been minimal impact on the public from the strike,