GMB union boss Curran 'suspended'

The GMB boss has been suspended by his union's executive

GMB boss Kevin Curran has been suspended by his union's executive, it is understood.

The news came in the middle of talks about a possible a merger of the GMB, Amicus and the TGWU.

An official probe was recently launched over allegations of ballot rigging during the GMB's leadership election, with a QC asked to look into the issue.

Mr Curran is reportedly accused of contacting the lawyer, John Hand, about the inquiry.

It is understood that Mr Curran said he was carrying out the union's instructions but the executive wanted an apology which the GMB boss refused and he was suspended on full pay until the inquiry is completed in several weeks time.

Members of the executive accused him of attempting to interfere with the inquiry, adding they had been left with no choice but to suspend him after having made it clear at an earlier stage Mr Curran was not to play any part in the probe.