Troops on standby for illegal prison guards' strike
The army has been put at the ready because of fears of a wildcat strike by prison officers over plans for more private-sector competition in jails.
Comment: I am somewhat puzzled why the Telegraph has filed this story under the heading "Defence" instead of "Home Affairs". In any event, as the headline points out it is illegal for prison officers to go on strike.
"Kenneth Clarke, the Justice Secretary, was attempting to head off the confrontation last night and it is understood that David Cameron has been consulted about the threat". It is amusing that Kenneth Clarke has consulted with David Cameron, because as we know, from the Prisoners Votes Case, David Cameron consulted his stomach and he said that the idea of giving prisoners the vote made him feel physically ill!
"The Prime Minister has hinted that he is prepared to bring in new trade union laws to deal with any new militancy". It just goes to show how out of touch with reality David Cameron is to talk about bringing in new trade union laws to deal with an issue which is already covered by existing legislation! The Prison Act 1952 prohibits prison officers from going on strike. If they should choose to break the law then they should all be dismissed!
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