Possibility of strike looms over holiday travel

A dispute regarding pensions of UK airport staff may lead to strikes during the busy holiday travel period.

 

The UK's biggest union, Unite, reported that local representatives have expressed very strong favour for action. The official results of the strike ballot will be declared by the end of the week, reflecting the preferences of the 5,000 workers. Employees at Heathrow and other principal airports have voted to take action.

 

The timing of the potential strikes risks coinciding with the already hectic travel period over the holidays, as flights in the beginning of the new year may be affected.

 

The union is required by law to give a week's notice before taking action, which makes December 27 the earliest day that walkouts could begin. However, union leaders have said that they are wary of the negative public image they would create by going on strike before the new year.

 

Stansted and Gatwick may be forced to close down during the strikes.

 

Other industry disputes include a call for action by airport security, maintenance, firefighting and clerical staff to oppose airport owner BAA's plan to exclude new employees from its final salary pension plan.

 

 

 

 

 


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Zoe Westof Editorial


20/12/2007



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