British TUC Leaders Join Pay 'Fatcats'

We have previously highlighted how mainstream trade unions have allowed themselves to become part of the big business system. Approximately 54 out of 164 registered trade unions still remain members of the British TUC. How can these unions take on big business fat cats when their leaders are reportedly earning more than the UK Prime Minister?

Background & Context

The TaxPayers’ Alliance has compiled a Trade Union Rich List to coincide with this weekend’s TUC conference. Their research reveals that forty-five union leaders took home six-figure salaries in the past year.

Top-Earning Union Leaders

• Paul Kenny & Tim Roache (GMB): £263,000 combined
• Larry Broderick (Financial Services Union): £164,723
• Russell Hobby (Ex-NAHT): £161,548
• John Smith (Musicians’ Union): £155,728
• Tim Poil (Nationwide Group Staff Union): £153,055
• Frances O’Grady (TUC Chief): £152,365
• Stephen Cotton (ITF): £149,005
• Cathy Warwick (Royal College of Midwives): £147,139
• Karen Middleton (Chartered Society of Physiotherapy): £140,670
• Roy Rickhuss (Community): £140,474
• Andy Darken (POA Deputy GS): £100,014

The average UK salary is £27,600, making these union bosses part of the top 5% of earners. Under Labour’s proposed levy, anyone earning over £80,000 would face a new 50% income tax.

Reactions & Implications

Chloe Wesley of the TaxPayers’ Alliance commented: “These union bosses claim to speak for workers, but it looks hypocritical when they take home whopping salaries at the same time as they criticise high pay elsewhere.”

Five leaders in the list earn more than the Prime Minister’s £150,402 annual salary.

Call to Action

We urge you to ask your friends, colleagues, and family to join a trade union that is not affiliated to the British TUC and that pledges:

“Our General Secretary will never become a Fat Cat Trade Union boss. Your subscriptions are about protecting your employment rights.”

Join the movement for transparent, member-focused unions today.