Unite the Union has confirmed that the Serious Fraud Office (SFO) is looking into the construction of a hotel and conference centre in Birmingham, a project that was intended to secure long-term financial benefits for the union and its members.

​

The union invested £112 million into the development, which includes the modern 195-room Aloft Birmingham Eastside hotel, a 1,000-capacity conference centre, and new regional offices. This ambitious project was designed to save the union on future hotel and conference costs while offering members an asset that would generate income.

​

However, an independent inquiry led by a King's Counsel, initiated by Unite's general secretary Sharon Graham, highlighted concerns over project costs and missing funds. The investigation revealed a discrepancy between the project's initial valuation and its current value. It also identified £14 million that had not been accounted for in the final project report.

​

In a show of strong leadership, Sharon Graham has committed to leaving "no stone unturned" to ensure full accountability and transparency. Since taking office in 2021, Graham has spearheaded internal reforms, safeguarding members' interests and taking swift action to uncover any potential financial wrongdoing. Unite's top priority, she has stressed, is to recover any money that may have been lost and to strengthen financial oversight, ensuring such issues are prevented in the future.

​

Graham has faced significant resistance since launching the inquiry, with critics from both inside and outside the union attempting to discredit the process. Despite this, she has remained resolute in her pursuit of the truth and in protecting the interests of Unite's members.

​

The union has also reassured members that steps are being taken to enhance financial controls and governance, providing peace of mind that Unite’s resources will be managed with greater transparency moving forward.

Unite’s former general secretary Len McCluskey, who had been a strong advocate for the project, previously welcomed the inquiry as a sensible step towards answering any outstanding questions. He has refrained from further comment due to the ongoing investigation.

​

While South Wales Police are continuing their own investigation into separate allegations of bribery, money-laundering, and fraud, Unite has fully cooperated with all law enforcement agencies involved.

A Unite spokesperson stated, “Sharon Graham has shown great courage in tackling these issues head-on, despite the immense pressure from various quarters. We are confident that the steps she has taken will restore trust and ensure Unite’s financial integrity going forward.”

​

The union has also launched legal claims to recover any lost funds, and members can be assured that financial reforms are in place to safeguard the future.