Tony Blair continued the policies of destroying collective protection in the workplace by eroding union power.

The unions had their wings clipped, but now it seems as though he has relented and placed many senior Union figures into places where they can influence government policy.

Hopefully the unions will see this an opportunity to ensure no more loony government policies regarding social welfare and that Labour will listen when the more lowly paid do ask for help.

A pretty astute move by Blair? We'll see.