TUC warns of 'frustrations'

Relations between Blair and the unions have been strained

TUC leader Brendan Barber has warned that trade union members have "real frustrations" at government policies, ahead of next week's annual congress in Brighton.

The organisation's ruling general council is meeting on Thursday to discuss the conference, where the government is expected to be criticised by delegates.

Mr Barber likened improving relations between the two to trying to turn round a supertanker.

But he says he is working to improve the relationship and highlighted progress on some issues.

Mr Barber challenged the government to accept a more positive role for unions to win back their support.

It is important that we express our concerns and register them forcibly but with a sense of perspective Brendan Barber TUC general secretary

He said there was concern about issues such as foundation hospitals and urged the government to involve workers in changes such as public sector reform.

"There is a challenge to the government, that will be evident during the congress, that they need to remedy their failure to spell out a real vision that recognises the importance of the union role," he said.

But he also highlighted some more upbeat feelings among delegates on issues such as the minimum wage and the ending of the two-tier labour market for local government workers.

He said: "It is important that we express our concerns and register them forcibly but with a sense of perspective. It is important that we don't lose our bearings."

'Power opportunity'

Earlier in the week, a forum was agreed to give unions the chance to discuss policy with ministers, which was welcomed by Mr Barber.

But shadow trade and industry secretary Tim Yeo told BBC Radio 4's Today programme: "Union leaders sense an opportunity to get back into the corridors of power."

The congress is expected to have strongly critical motions on pensions, manufacturing and employment law.

Mr Barber will be addressing his first TUC Congress as general secretary after taking over from John Monks this year.