In a scathing attack by joint general secretary Tony Woodley, he claimed that the government was "losing momentum" in tackling the problems caused by "spivs and speculators" and criticised its strategy of attempting to "breathe life back into the free market".

Woodley said: "I want to see a properly funded strategic plan for manufacturing, of the sort that is operating in France, Spain and Germany.

"This must be backed by a readiness to take control in sectors vital for the future of a high-skill, high-tech industrial base."

He accused ministers of "dilly-dallying" on the aid for the car industry and called for them to announce a plan immediately.

Woodley went on to call for the government to stop "pandering" to the banks and establish a national, state-owned people's bank, which "puts people, communities and our economy" before profits, and one that "redirects money from the useless bankers".

The surprisingly outspoken statement from the UK's largest union comes as the economic downturn ravages the print industry.

Around 200 jobs have been lost in the past week alone with many more on the line as companies in administration search for a buyer.

Woodley ended with a call for a public works programme to create jobs, including council house building, transport and green infrastructure projects.

"Our plans still look timid when set alongside Barack Obama's ambitious package in the US," Woodley said.