Summer retreats
Sir: Paul Johnson writes (27 July) that 'the recent restructuring of the Independent . . . was decided regardless of what the staff felt and with only the feeblest of protests'. The truth is that the NUJ chapel fought hard and effectively, with over- whelming staff support, and was able to negotiate a settlement far less devastating than the terms suggested at the outset of the crisis. It was a retreat, but a fighting retreat which saved many jobs. It is this ability to resist which makes the union credible to journalists: an ability never seriously affected by postures and scandals at the top. More interesting, to me, is the quiet retreat by managements from threats to 'de-recognise' the union. These days, they are inclined to beg chapel officials to join the financial planning groups which seek ways to survive the recession.
Neal Ascherson
Independent on Sunday, London EC1
'I blame the parent.'
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