New contracts introduced by ASDA will disproportionately affect ASDA’s most loyal staff and those with caring responsibilities. Mr Miliband is backing GMB’s campaign encouraging ASDA to get back round the table and negotiate with the union.

Contract 6 will remove paid breaks for staff, bank holiday and night shift pay will be slashed, and ASDA will be able to change working patterns with just four weeks’ notice.

Staff who have worked at ASDA for many years are expecting to see their annual income reduced by hundreds of pounds. Those who refuse to sign the new contracts have been told that they will be sacked in the run up to Christmas on 2 November.

ASDA has two stores in Doncaster North. Mr Miliband has written to the Chief Executive of ASDA expressing his concern for constituents affected and he hopes that the company, unions and staff will still be able to come to an agreement.

Mr Miliband said:

“It is a great shame that ASDA, which started as Yorkshire company and continues to be an important employer in my constituency, was unable to come to an agreement and that staff are now having to make this difficult decision. I have been contacted by constituents who have worked loyally for ASDA for many decades who feel let down and frightened for their future.

“I am hopeful that ASDA, having experienced the strength of feeling from campaigners, staff and political figures will look again at their proposals and engage with the unions.”