HS2 Ltd and TUC sign framework agreement
HS2 Ltd and the TUC have agreed a framework to maximise the economic and labour benefits of the UK’s new north-south high speed rail line.
The agreement demonstrates a commitment from HS2 Ltd to work together with the trade union movement to lead a safe, diverse and inclusive workforce with a strong voice.
The Trades Union Congress (TUC) and many of its member unions support the case for HS2, recognising it as a crucial investment in the country’s economy that at the peak of construction will create a 25,000-strong newly skilled workforce and up to 2,000 apprenticeships.
An ‘initial framework agreement’ sets out how the partners will discuss issues concerning the employment, development, diversity and inclusion of people working throughout the project’s supply chain.
It also provides a platform for future work package agreements to be to be agreed directly between the relevant contractors and unions with support from HS2 Ltd and the TUC.
As part of the agreement, HS2 Ltd and the TUC have committed to a series of shared values including:
- The importance of respect at work
- A commitment to equalities, diversity and inclusion
- A commitment to exemplary health, safety and wellbeing
- A commitment to legacy, maximising economic and social regeneration
HS2 Ltd Chief Executive and TUC General Secretary, Frances O’Grady, signed the agreement this week at HS2 Ltd’s community hub in Euston.
HS2 Ltd Chief Executive, Simon Kirby, said:
Our mission is to be a high-performing, innovative organisation that delivers value for money by applying the best in worldwide design and construction techniques.
To accomplish this mission we need to lead a safe, valued and effective workforce. This fundamental agreement underlines our responsibility as a direct employer as well as a commitment to the wider workforce that will deliver HS2 across our supply chain.
I look forward to working with the TUC and their colleagues to provide the very best standards in areas such as safety and wellbeing, diversity and development.
TUC General Secretary, Frances O’Grady, said:
HS2 is a massive opportunity for workers in the construction and rail sectors. We look forward to working with HS2 and our member unions to ensure that equality, safety and respect are at the heart of the project.
HS2 is key for creating jobs, driving economic growth, and narrowing the north-south divide. It’s a much-needed investment boost in our railways.
This agreement commits all those delivering HS2 to maximising benefits to the UK supply chain, crucial at a time when we are discussing the future of the UK steel industry.
You can view the initial framework agreement between HS2 Ltd and the TUC on this website at:
HS2 Ltd and TUC initial framework agreement
Notes to editors
Under the agreement, a committee will be formed that will be chaired by Mr Kirby and also include Ms O’Grady and representatives from unions RMT, UNITE, ASLEF, GMB, TSSA and UCATT. The committee is expected to meet four times a year during the initial phase of the project and twice a year thereafter.
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