There is a school of thought in the UK trade union movement that it doesn't really matter who wins the May election, because Labour's move to the right means there's little to chose between them and the Conservatives.

On some issues - private sector involvement in public services for one - this may hold a bit of water, but the reality is that Labour despite its many shortcomings, still represents the only realistic choice for working people and their families.

Here's just a few things the Tories forgot to mention in the 'mini-festo' - all taken from their April 2005 policy document on 'deregulation'.

Statutory Dismissal
The harder it is to dismiss staff the less likely it is that a business will recruit them in the first place.
The one-size-fits-all approach in these regulations damages small businesses in particular. We will scrap this requirement.

Sex discrimination regulations
Under the Social Chapter the burden of proof in these cases is unjustly biased against the employer. We will revive the UK's opt-out and restore natural justice in our courts.

Information and consultation
The onerous approach of the Social Chapter hampers productivity and hence job creation and regulations particularly damages small businesses. We will revive the UK's opt-out.

The minimum wage and union rights don't even get a mention!

Check here for more 'progressive' policies...

Conservative Party - Policies