Trade union leaders are to put a broad set of demands to Labour ahead of its next general election manifesto, including free school meals for all primary children and new flexible working rights for parents.

Recognising that Labour’s financial crisis has put them in a powerful position, the unions have deliberately decided to hold back from demanding traditional workers’ rights, and are instead pushing issues which they hope will have a broad appeal with core Labour voters.

Their strength will be highlighted this week when Labour succeeds in signing off its annual accounts only after union leaders rallied to its financial support after a collapse in backing from wealthy donors.

The unions are putting in amendments to Labour’s policy-making process ahead of a national forum next month that will determine much of the party’s programme. They fear that if they push an agenda focusing exclusively on improved rights for unions, the main beneficiaries will be the Tories. Instead, they will push for Labour’s general election manifesto to focus on broader issues, such as a proposal for green shop stewards to promote the climate change agenda in the workplace.

The main body responsible for coordinating unions affiliated to Labour - Tulo - has decided that each union will set its own priorities to the party.

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