Prison officers are preparing to challenge the Government in court to regain their right to strike, with the full support of the trade union movement. The Prison Officers Association (POA) is calling on the Government to reconsider its position to avoid a potential clash in the European Court of Human Rights. Recent statistics from the Ministry of Justice revealed a surge in attacks on prison staff and an increase in inmate deaths in England and Wales, with 10,568 assaults on staff recorded in the previous year, marking a 7% rise. Notably, there were significant incidents where prison officers were allegedly attacked by individuals involved in high-profile cases like the Manchester Arena bombing and the Southport triple murder.

Following these alarming events, various trade union bodies, including the Trades Union Congress (TUC) and the General Federation of Trade Unions (GFTU), have united with the POA to demand the restoration of the right to strike for prison officers. The collective effort aims to address a breach identified by the European Committee of Social Rights concerning the UK’s social charter obligations. The removal of the right to strike for prison officers dates back to the 1994 Criminal Justice and Public Order Act under the Troy Government. Despite promises from subsequent governments, including the Blair Labour Government, the issue remains unresolved. The current Labour administration under Keir Starmer has also indicated no intention to reverse the legislation.

Steve Gillan, the general secretary of the POA, criticized the Labour Government’s stance, emphasizing the urgent need for action to support prison officers who are facing escalating challenges within the prison system. The letter from the unions to the Prime Minister highlighted the crucial nature of granting prison officers the right to strike, stressing the impact on their well-being, recruitment, and morale. However, Deputy Prime Minister and Secretary of State for Justice David Lammy has reiterated the government’s decision not to lift the ban on strike rights for prison officers and has vowed to contest the legal challenge.

In response, a Ministry of Justice spokesperson acknowledged the dedication of prison officers to public safety and outlined ongoing measures to enhance their support and protection. These initiatives include a 3.5% pay rise for frontline workers, the introduction of pepper spray in prison facilities, provision of body armor for staff working with dangerous offenders, and training in Taser use for hundreds of officers.