Dubbins was responding to claims in the 31 August issue of the Financial Times that major unions financial problems could affect political contributions.

"Our political contributions increased and we actually made a 500,000 surplus," he said.

As for its decline in members during the year 2002-2003, Dubbins said the 40% fall to 102,000 was due to the rule change that excluded retired members from the totals.

Meanwhile the merger of the GPMU with Amicus continues at a pace, with ballot papers due to be sent out to the individual 27 branches in the next few days.

This will be for the branches to decide whether they become part of the new Graphic Arts sector within Amicus, or remain autonomous.

Under the merger some 20,000 Amicus members will be added to the new sector's membership, which will be one of the largest within Amicus.

Story by Andy Scott