Grant Shapps accused of ‘outrageous slur’ over claim ambulance strike puts lives at risk

Business secretary clashes with union chiefs as he sets out plan for anti-strike legislation

Business secretary Grant Shapps (PA Wire)

Business secretary Grant Shapps was accused of an “outrageous” attack on unions representing NHS ambulance staff after he claimed that their approach to strikes was “putting lives at risk”.

The cabinet minister clashed with trade unions once again as he set out new laws requiring minimum levels of service from NHS staff, firefighters and railway workers during any industrial action.

The proposals were condemned as “dangerous gimmick” by unions chiefs, who warned of the legislation would “poison industrial relations”, lead to legal action and see more frequent walkouts.