Austerity: Weakest will be hit hardest by cuts say public sector unions

Hundreds of people joined a rally led by public sector union Unison in Bradford's Centenary Square yesterday to protest at the cuts to public services.

Margaret Thomas, regional head of local government for Unison, warned the cuts would not just affect public services.

"They will affect the private sector too. We have to keep campaigning and lobbying the Liberal and Tory councillors and MPs to make them realise that these cuts are not necessary and all they will do is hit the most vulnerable in society," she said.

Members of Unison and the GMB were joined by representatives from the teaching unions, Bradford Trades Council, Hope Not Hate, the People's Coalition, the Fire Brigade, the Students' Union, Bradford University, Mencap and various voluntary organisations.

Unison regional secretary Cliff Williams said Bradford would be a district hit hardest by the cuts which he branded "savage and unnecessary."

He added: "Dedicated and often low paid public service workers did not cause this financial mess – it was the reckless greed and gambling culture of the bankers and financial institutions which the taxpayer has had to bail out. It is grossly unjust and economically disastrous."

Some protesters wore skeleton costumes to signify "the skeleton services" they claim will be left behind in health and local government as the full impact of spending cuts is felt.

Unison branch secretary Linda Crowther said: "Our members are angry and fearful about what will happen to their jobs and the people who rely on them, day in and day out. Everyone is united in their opposition to these appalling cuts to essential services."