SHOPWORKERS’ union Usdaw is calling on delegates at the TUC Black Workers’ Conference this weekend to back stronger collective bargaining rights.

They say this will enable trade unions to better tackle race discrimination and the disproportionate impact austerity has had on black workers.

Usdaw general secretary Paddy Lillis said: “Austerity has had a disproportionate and adverse effect on black workers, their families and communities.

“Black workers are over-represented in low paying, insecure, temporary and low-hours jobs.

“Black workers are also more likely to rely on the safety net of social security, a safety net that the Tory government is intent on dismantling.

“Austerity together with attacks on trade unions and the undermining of collective bargaining has led to a dramatic shift in the balance of power in the workplace.

“We need to renew the agenda to challenge the disproportionate impact of austerity on black workers and re-emphasise the crucial role collective bargaining plays in delivering greater equality in the workplace.”