Although Labour Conference is set to take place next month, doubts have surfaced over whether it will go ahead thanks to a security snag. After the party decided to boycott G4S — their usual security supplier — they have been left with few options when it comes to security firms for the event. A leaked memo to Guido last week revealed that the only security firm available to Labour at present is Liverpool-based Showsec. Alas, questions have been raised over their suitability as they are in the midst of a row with the GMB after being accused of not letting staff unionise.
However, Mr S understands there is another option on the table. If Labour decide that Showsec’s union stance deems them unsuitable — and continue their boycott of G4S — they could turn to the police for security. For a fee, the police can provide members of the force to provide security at commercial events. While the police are prohibited from joining ordinary trade unions — over fears any strike could pose a public safety risk — they are represented by the Police Federation.
Alas, turning to the police would prove costly. While Showsec’s hourly rate per security guard is around £8-9 an hour, a PC comes to a whopping £59.65 an hour:
So, Labour face a dilemma: does the party put its where its mouth is or go for one of the cheaper options and risk being accused of compromising its values? Either way, they need to decide soon before they give the impression that they can be trusted with both security and money.
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