The Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) has formally written to the GMB union asking for information on how it’s complying with the Equality Act following allegations of sexual harassment, victimisation and sex discrimination, Sky News understands.
Former staffers and members of the union had launched an official complaint to the equalities watchdog earlier this year over claims of institutional sexism and bullying, but this is the first time it has deemed them serious enough to start inquiries.
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It’s the first step in a possible investigation by the equalities watchdog into activity at the union over systemic sexism, and GMB has just under a month to respond.
GMB has said it categorically denies claims of a culture of bullying or sexism within the union.
“GMB has been contacted by the EHRC with a request for information,” said a statement.
“This is a procedural matter and not an investigation.
“We look forward to responding properly and professionally to their request.”
Read more:
Sexism ‘worse than ever’ at GMB
‘Institutionally sexist’
In the original complaint, which Sky News has seen, a number of women allege there is a “pattern of victimisation and harassment against women who speak out” about wrongdoing inside the Labour-backed union.
They argue it could be a breach of GMB’s duties under the Equality Act.
GMB is one of the biggest unions in the UK, but has been struggling with its reputation for years.
Four years ago, a damning report written by Karon Monaghan KC branded the union “institutionally sexist” and a number of women who complained to the EHRC insist the union hasn’t changed.
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GMB represents about 630,000 workers in the UK and is one of the Labour Party’s major funders.
Sir Keir Starmer gave the keynote speech at the GMB conference a year before the last general election and numerous cabinet ministers, including the prime minister, are members.
This weekend, the union, which prides itself on fighting for people in their own workplaces, will once again meet for its annual conference in Brighton – but this time with looming questions over how fairly it treats its own.
