A number of members (who are also members of the BNP) have contacted me to ask if the Solidarity Trade Union takes a view as to who they should nominate for the role of BNP Leader. It is no secret that Solidarity defends the rights of BNP members to freedom of expression and association. It is also well known that we have prevented harassment of BNP members at work on political grounds. Though our members are drawn from all Parties and none we are a Nationalist Union with love of our country at heart.

Three of the four contenders are members of our Union, Richard Barnbrook, Derek Adams and the incumbent Nick Griffin. Derek Adams has even acted as a Representative for us which resulted in a Manager who was harassing workers herself being removed. All three value the Union and want to work with us to promote a real alternative to the establishment Unions. They understand that our work is vital.

Sadly the fourth contender is a very different matter. Eddy Butler has shown contempt for our Union and the good work that we do. He has done everything he can to sow discord between ourselves and the Party of which he is a member. He has openly said that he wants to severe any support the Union gets from the BNP and hopes this will mean we will collapse. In addition he has said that he will sack some of our members who work in a BNP call-centre in Belfast and move operations to the mainland. No consultation - just the sack. We have even been taken to task by him for standing up for our members and pointing out that they have a right to be consulted and that any move would have to follow correct procedure!

I don't believe in beating around the bush. I have been asked to express my opinion and I will. Eddy Butler hates our Union. Don't nominate him. If you have nominated him on one of his invalid, unofficial forms don't worry. It will not count anyway. Use the official form to nominate whosoever you please. Eddy has had a lot to say about our Union and now I say this of him - Eddy is a wrecker who does not deserve the support of any genuine Nationalist.

We look forward to continuing our work to represent all workers in need of our help and protection. Together we are strong!

Pat Harrington
General Secretary
(in a personal capacity)