Robinson successfully defended his school from closure, fought for the unification of the teaching unions, mentored future trade union leaders and transformed teaching at the Marx Memorial Library, writes JOHN FOSTER

THE Prison Officers’ Association (POA) conference commences in Eastbourne where delegates gather to set the policy for the national executive committee and full-time officers to carry out.
We will hear keynote speakers from across the political spectrum and from the employer of HM Prison and Probation Service (HMPPS). There is no doubt in my mind that this is one of the most concerning periods for HMPPS in decades.
I do not use the words lightly: there is no doubt that the prison service is in deep crisis. We have witnessed measures such as “operation safeguard,” “operation early dawn,” and a variety of early release schemes to ease overcrowding.

After one year of a Labour government attacking winter fuel allowance and disabled people, the trade union movement must step up regardless of who holds power, writes STEVE GILLAN


