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Coronavirus: RMT union boss Steve Hedley suspended over disparaging remarks on PM's health

The union's effective number two is now facing a "formal investigation" into his conduct.

Aubrey Allegretti

Political reporter

Friday 10 April 2020 18:04, UK

Steve Hedley, Senior Assistant General Secretary of the Rail, Maritime and Transport (RMT) union, makes a speech to members of the union protesting outside Paddington station in London, as train services on some of the country's busiest routes will be "significantly" hit because of a strike by rail workers.
Image: Steve Hedley is effectively the RMT union's number two
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Steve Hedley, a senior trade union official, has been suspended after making disparaging comments about the prime minister's health.

The RMT's senior assistant general secretary - effectively its number two - is now subject to a "formal investgation".

The union said in a statement its national executive had decided to suspend him while inquiries are made "into his conduct".

Boris Johnson
Image: The PM was last seen in a self-shot video before he went into hospital

It comes after Mr Hedley reportedly said he would "throw a party" if Boris Johnson died from coronavirus.

RMT president Michelle Rodgers and general secretary Mick Cash said in a joint statement: "Steve Hedley's comments do not represent the views of this trade union and are wholly unacceptable."

Mr Johnson has been moved out of intensive care but is still being treated in hospital.

The latest update from Downing Street was that he "has been able to do short walks" between periods of rest.

Mr Johnson's spokesman said it was too early to speculate how long the prime minister would need to stay in hospital, adding he was not aware of any contact between Mr Johnson and Number 10.

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