Warnings of industrial action by millions of public sector workers are expected to be stepped up later when the TUC discusses a call for co-ordinated strikes.
The Public and Commercial Services Union will urge the TUC conference in Brighton to support co-ordinated action across the public sector in disputes over pay and jobs.
The union is expecting to win huge support for its calls amidst increasing signs of unrest in local government and the civil service.
PCS members at the Department for Work and Pensions have already rejected a three-year pay deal and are likely to be balloted for strikes within weeks.
The PCS has also warned hat all its members in the civil service could take strike action in the coming months in protest at below inflation pay offers and cuts in jobs.
Home Secretary Jacqui Smith and Work and Pensions Secretary Peter Hain will also address delegates.
Richard Lambert, director general of the CBI, will deliver a speech to the conference and will take questions from delegates.
The TUC has enjoyed good relations with the CBI since Mr Lambert took over from Digby Jones.
