Ucatt and Unite are set to merge after union members voted overwhelmingly in favour of combining the two organisations.

Ucatt members voted by 85.5% to 14.5% for the move, which paves the way to combine both memberships and form a "strong progressive voice for Britain's construction workers and their industry".

Details will be finalised over the coming weeks ahead of Ucatt's formal transfer to Unite on 01 January 2017

Welcoming the news, both organisation's said their combined resources and expertise would "zero in on ending bogus self-employment" as well stopping firms from "indulging in a race to the bottom by undercutting pay, terms and conditions".

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Unite general secretary Len McCluskey, said: "This is a historic moment for the construction industry and the men and women who work in it.

"Bad bosses and construction firms employing sharp practices should beware. Our new combined industrial voice will be used to defend the rights of construction workers across the UK and to campaign for secure decent jobs which pay the rate for the job. I look forward to working with our new colleagues and welcoming Ucatt members into the Unite family."

Ucatt acting general secretary Brian Rye added: "By joining with Unite, the industrial muscle of all construction workers will double overnight, which is good news for all members."

(LM)