PCS responds.Introduction
The MoD press machine has long been accustomed to achieving media coverage favourable to the Department. But over the last year or two, the MoD has been put under pressure by PCS campaigning strategies that have included some notable successes of its own- this type of campaigning is part and parcel of what an "organising" union does, and PCS is committed to continue to keep up the pressure.
In the face of questionable MoD decisions to pursue privatisations, relocations, cut jobs and impose below inflation pay rises it would be grossly irresponsible of our union not to use all forums available to express the views of our members. The media is clearly one key forum. PCS is proud to be a membership led union and we will not apologise for highlighting the concerns raised by our members or for bringing them to wider attention. It is against this background that PCS media work takes on even greater importance.
The apparent initial strategy of the MoD in response has been to try to remain aloof from what it likes to call "press speculation" that has emerged as a consequence of certain stories being taken up in the media. However, as everybody knows remaining silent passes the initiative to those who have a different story to tell.
We are not surprised therefore to learn - from various parts of the Department - that the MoD has now unwisely begun to seek to gag PCS representatives under the guise of DIN 03-020.
We wish to the attention of all PCS Representatives the MoD Policy Rules and Guidance on this matter. "The Standards of Conduct and Behaviour" PRG - under the heading of Trades Unions Paragraph 19 and 20.
The paragraphs of the relevant PRG- under task 3, the section headed "Trade Unions" says:
19. If you are an elected official of a recognised trade union or staff association you do not need to obtain MoD authority if you are publicising your association’s or union’s view on an official matter which, because it directly affects the conditions of service of members, is of legitimate interest to them. (PCS underlining) This exemption does not apply to the (probably rare) case where the official duties of the union or association representative as a public servant are directly concerned with the matter in question.
20. You do not need permission to take part in activities organised by, or on behalf of, unions or staff associations, although conduct in public should still be consistent with the principles set out above. You must not comment on issues of a politically controversial nature and should obtain permission from a senior line manager (minimum B2 or equivalent) before attending conferences of a political nature in an official capacity.
The PRG makes specific mention of trade unions which lie outside the PRG’s general advice and instructions to MoD Civil Servants. It has never been the case that PCS representatives cannot talk to the press. It has always been understood that representatives need to make clear that they are speaking as accredited trade union representatives, not Civil Servants.
Conclusion
PCS will continue to represent its members through negotiations, consultations and by campaigning. PCS will not be gagged by anyone because our views - and that of our members - do not accord with the official line.
Local representatives are urged to continue to campaign on behalf of our members using the paragraphs of the above PRG as guidance. If representatives are unsure of how to proceed they should contact their Regional Liaison Officer in the first instance.
Paul Bemrose
Negotiations Officer
