Robert Barron (British Association of Colliery Management) told the energy supply industry conference: “Traditionally our membership, within Prospect and its predecessor unions, has been concentrated in asset-owner companies such as UK Coal, National Grid and E.On.

“While we have some recognition within contracting companies, we have not given the concerns of contractors as much prominence in our communications and recruitment materials.”

The motion instructed the sector executive to ensure that contractors’ interests were reflected in Prospect’s responses to government, the Health and Safety Executive and other stakeholders.

Success would help the union to retain members who transferred to contractors and help win new ones, he concluded.

Photographer: Stefano Cagnoni