Head of GMB union, John Edmonds quizzed

To watch coverage of the forum, select the link below:

  56k  

---

John Edmonds is head of the powerful union, the GMB, and is leading union opposition to Labour plans to extend the role of the private sector.

He argues that using private finance is costly to the public purse, and undermines the principle of public service.

But on Tuesday Tony Blair will tell the unions that he is determined to use the private sector where necessary to reform schools and hospitals.

Are the unions right to oppose the government on this issue? If they cannot reach agreement, what should they do about it?

John Edmonds joined us from the TUC conference for a live forum and answered a selection of your questions.