The FBU has taken firm action against an individual for racist and fascist activity. As far as the union is aware, this is the first time in the FBU’s history that someone has been barred from membership for an offence involving the promotion of fascist material.
A disciplinary committee hearing on Tuesday 29 October found that an individual had repeatedly expressed racist views on their social media account, and had consistently promoted Britain First, a fascist organisation.
The individual in question was a former Executive Council member. They remained active in FBU politics, and for some years have been the Chair of a tiny group – which calls itself the “Campaign for a Democratic FBU” – which has publicly attacked the FBU’s campaigns and policies.
They resigned from membership of the FBU before the disciplinary process could be completed, presumably in an attempt to avoid answering the complaint. Nevertheless, the FBU hearing found that they would have been expelled had they remained a member. They are therefore barred from membership.
Matt Wrack, Fire Brigades Union general secretary, said:
This is an alarming and unprecedented case. Racism and fascism have no place in the fire and rescue service, and they have no place in our union.
Fascism is a deadly enemy of the workers’ movement. Fascists in power have smashed trade unions, including through the murder, torture and mass imprisonment of activists and organisers; through the robbery and seizure of trade union property; and through the utter destruction of all trade union organisation.
The FBU is a proudly anti-racist, anti-fascist union. We stand for unity, equality and solidarity. Our members will be shocked that such activity was being undertaken by a former union official.
We are determined to lead the fight for equality in the fire service. Doing this means tackling this issue head-on.”
