Reject CWU’s Royal Mail letter writing stunt

Reject CWU’s Royal Mail Letter Writing Stunt

The Communication Workers Union (CWU) has launched a letter-writing campaign urging postal workers to contact their Members of Parliament (MPs) to demand urgent action regarding the ongoing Royal Mail dispute. However, this approach has faced criticism for being ineffective and delegitimizing the potential for stronger industrial action.

CWU’s Campaign and Its Limits

The CWU encourages members to write to MPs in an attempt to pressure the government on issues affecting postal workers. While letter-writing is a traditional method of political engagement, many see it as a symbolic gesture that falls short of meaningful resistance against Royal Mail management.

Critics argue that relying on MPs and political appeals delays direct action that could leverage worker power more effectively. The campaign diverts attention from organizing robust strikes and solidarity measures that could force tangible concessions.

The Need for Militancy

Effective resistance in labor disputes depends on building collective strength through militant actions, not just parliamentary lobbying. Postal workers’ conditions and wages have been deteriorating, with management pushing for cuts despite unions' protests.

The CWU’s tactic risks pacifying frustration among workers by giving false hope of quick political remedies. True change demands escalated direct action and independent working-class struggle instead of trusting politicians who often align with corporate interests.

“The letter-writing stunt is a distraction from the necessity of striking and uniting postal workers to confront management’s attacks head-on,” a labor analyst noted.

Author’s Summary

The CWU’s focus on letter-writing to MPs undermines the direct, militant action needed to win better conditions for Royal Mail workers, offering symbolic protest over effective struggle.

World Socialist Web Site — 2025-11-28