I was pleased by the success I had working with Unison to address the issue of the two-tier workforce at the North Staffs University Hospital. It came to my attention that the non-emergency ambulance service had been contracted out to a private contractor and that new staff were recruited on less favourable terms and conditions than existing workers. This was in breach of the Government’s Code of Practice intended to eliminate two-tier workforces. The issue went to ACAS arbitration in accordance with the provisions of the Code and there was eventually a finding in favour of the workers. This was just one example of what can be achieved when MPs work closely with trade unions in the interests of workers.