The union was given the go ahead to continue talks with possible partners, including the Transport & General Workers Union, Amicus-AEEU and the Communication Workers Union, with a view to completing the merger within 12 months.

The seven rebel branches that had opposed the merger had no negative impact and okayed the decision, said a spokesman.

General secretary Tony Dubbins had warned that a damaging split could mark the end for the union (PrintWeek, 6 June).

The rest of the conference went equally smoothly, according to the spokesman. Rule changes put forward by the executive to save money within areas such as benefits were accepted by delegates, he said.