Monday marks the beginning of HeartUnions Week, a moment for us to stop and reflect upon the hard-won rights which trade unions have granted every worker across the UK.

In the past century, unions have been vital in securing sick pay, parental leave, and protections from unfair dismissal for employees – and are crucial in creating a labour market where workers are protected from exploitation.

As this week begins, I would like to pay tribute to trade unionists who are still working hard to create better working conditions for people across the UK.

The Labour Party was founded by trade unionists – I am proud that this Labour Government is legislating to strengthen unions after the Tories tried to crush the right to strike when in Government.

Our Employment Rights Bill, currently progressing through Parliament, will protect workers – and help unions to better represent their members.

To do this, we are lowering the threshold of employees needed for workplace recognition from 10% to 2% so that they can advocate for the workers sooner.

We are also repealing the draconian measures which the Tories brought in to curtail the rights of public sector workers to strike.

This Bill will also end exploitative zero-hour contracts and unscrupulous fire-and-rehire practices – as well as making sure employees have access to rights like parental leave and sick pay from day one of employment.

At the same time, we are making it easier for companies to hire staff they need to thrive and drive the economic growth vital to getting Britain back on track.

And 72% of people across Stretford & Urmston want these rights, according to a new poll by HopeNotHate.

Trade unions built the rights that we enjoy today – and will be crucial in delivering a better deal for workers years to come.

Andrew Western MP