Politicians of all colours have condemned the views of Len McCluskey regarding union protest and “civil disobedience”, published in what was overall a provocative interview by The Guardian.

“… the idea the world should arrive in London and have these wonderful Olympic Games as though everything is nice and rosy in the garden is unthinkable. The unions, and the general community, have got every right to be out protesting. If the Olympics provide us with an opportunity, then that’s exactly one that we should be looking at.”

While Nick Clegg called on Ed Miliband to “rein in” the Unite boss – whose union is the biggest Labour Party donor – the opposition leader himself was quick to take to Twitter to denounce the idea of “any threat” to the Olympics. Harriet Harman emphasised that the Olympics are an important opportunity for the UK affecting jobs, economic growth and future prosperity.

If the Olympics provide us with an opportunity, then that’s exactly one that we should be looking atLen McCluskey, General Secretary of Unite

It would seem that McCluskey is a lone wolf, even amongst his trade union counterparts. Brendan Barber of the TUC also made clear that they were fully engaged with the Olympic authorities, saying they “want to see a great games that delivers a proper legacy of jobs and regeneration.” Yet the overwhelming response from all sides suggests McCluskey’s comments were taken far more seriously than simple posturing, even though there is nothing to suggest he has called on union members to take any strike action.

Creating a cost effective Olympic legacy has been the preserve of Dennis Hone of the Olympic Delivery Authority, click through to read our exclusive interview.

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Does McCluskey have a point, or is he just a shameless opportunist?

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