Derek Simpson Re-elected

Derek Simpson has been re-elected as joint leader of Unite, the UK's biggest trade union.

Full ballot result is as follows: (but not from the ERS)

Derek Simpson 60,048 (37.8%)
Jerry Hicks 39,307 (24.84%)
Kevin Coyne 30,603 (19.34%)
Paul Reuter 28,283 (17.87%)

Spoilt papers          1,031

Votes cast 15,8241

Given this was an election which was forced on Unite, and the wide ranging personal attacks on Derek Simpson and Unite by News International and other newspapers - aided and abbetted by people inside Unite and outside of the union's employment, this victory is a remarkable result.

It fully vindicates the policies of campaigning and fighting back for Unite members which were advocated and lead by Derek Simpson before and during the election.

Congratulations Derek!