Statement from Ronnie Draper, General Secretary of BFAWU

On Tuesday 23rd August, I received an email from the Labour Party informing me that I have been suspended from membership. I am now blocked from attending Labour Party meetings, Annual Conference and, above all, voting in the leadership election.

The only explanation I have been given is that this is something to do with an unidentified tweet I have posted. I have not been given the opportunity to refute any allegations, or a date for any hearing. 

I believe this flies in the face of natural justice. I intend to challenge my suspension robustly and am currently taking legal advice. 

I do not seek any personal privilege based on my trade union position. I passionately believe that all members should be allowed to be heard, and be given the opportunity to vote for the candidate of their choice. 

I am extremely concerned that suspensions and bans are being imposed in an arbitrary or politically motivated way in this election, and I will be raising the issue with the General Secretary.

This suspension will not stop me or the Bakers Food & Allied Workers Union from campaigning politically for workers’ rights, including the £10 per hour rate and abolition of zero hour contracts.

Ronnie Draper
General Secretary