GS election and hustings

I was disappointed to see that in the June Freelance you claimed that our new General Secretary, Sis Michelle Stanistreet, was elected unopposed and that a hustings was being organised in Coventry for the DGS post.

I also applied for the post of General Secretary, but agreed to withdrawn my nomination just before Delegate Meeting. This was because Michelle and I largely agree on how we want to take the union forward?- as a campaigning and inclusive organisation that continues to punch above its weight.

The NEC recorded a vote of thanks for my selfless actions. Therefore Michelle was only appointed after my name was withdrawn.

Bro Chris Youett

• At the due date for the election there were no other candidates. Michelle was therefore elected unopposed. Chris's NUJ Branch organised a DGS hustings, which took place on 19 July. See this page for details of the ballot for the new NUJ Deputy General Secretary.