Birmingham City Council

Council leader loses 'cheap trick' confidence vote

The vote came at the last full council meeting before Birmingham local elections are held on 7 May.

It comes amid accusations that Coventry City Council is guilty of strike-breaking attempts.

Councillor John Cotton urges the Unite union to reopen "realistic" negotiations in Birmingham.

Unite general secretary Sharon Graham says striking workers have the union's "unwavering support".

A judge rules the union repeatedly breached an injunction preventing the blocking of waste vehicles.

The union votes in favour of an "unprecedented" £580,000 cut, due to anger over ongoing action.

Householders describe recycling piled up in homes, sporadic waste collections and rat problems.

A music fundraiser has been launched to mark a year since the bin strike started in Birmingham.

A "financial risk" fund has been put aside by Coventry City Council as an equal pay row rumbles on.

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