Trades Union Congress (TUC) general secretary Fraces O’Grady is calling on unionised workers in the UK and Germany to influence working conditions in the two countries.

In a speech at the DGB – Germany’s equivalent of the TUC – Ms O’Grady said “synchronised union action” would create pressure for higher wages.

"The TUC and DGB must explore the scope for synchronised union action, politically and organisationally,” she told the meeting.

“Workers deserve a bigger say in decision-making at work, higher wages that will stimulate growth, and a more secure future for their children.

"Europe has lost its appeal for many ordinary working people. Slow growth and austerity economics has delivered little in quality jobs, wage rises or living standards.

"We face widespread unemployment, particularly amongst the young, a continent-wide squeeze on wages and living standards, and, where new jobs are being created, too many are low-paid, insecure and on zero hours contracts.”