Dear Member,
Election campaigning: an appeal for decency - stop personal abuse
In all likelihood the FBU will shortly commence a ballot for the election of General Secretary.
This is to insist that campaigning for this election is conducted in a respectful and civilised manner.
I am aware of certain postings on social media which are simply the personal targeting of candidates, or the supporters of candidates, using personal abuse and, on several occasions, clearly false claims being made. At a recent Executive Council meeting these unwarranted attacks were discussed and there was a clear view that members and officials should conduct themselves in accordance with the rules of the union.
These matters have become so serious that we are now seeking legal advice in relation to addressing specific social media posts.
This election should be an opportunity to discuss our policies and strategies to improve pay, pensions, safety and to defend our jobs, terms, and conditions.
This election, like any other should not be used to target and attack any individual or group of individuals. Anyone involved in such behaviour brings shame on themselves and on our union.
I call on the abuse to cease immediately.
Yours in unity,
Ben Selby
Assistant General Secretary
