Border Force officials call off threat of imminent strike action
James ChapplePlanned strike action by hundreds of Border Force officials at Heathrow airport over 11-14 April has been suspended to allow their union to resume talks with the Home Office.
Public and Commercial Services (PCS) union members at Heathrow last month voted overwhelmingly in favour of action in a dispute over a new roster and changes to shift patterns following a ballot.
The PCS union claims the roster changes could force up to 250 Border Force staff at Heathrow "forced out of their jobs", with the potential to disproportionally affect those with disabilities or caring responsibilities.
However, after issuing its strike notice on 28 March, the union has agreed to suspend the action "in a spirit of collaboration" following a request from the Home Office for clarification about which members of Border Force personnel would be striking.
"Until now, the Home Office has refused to withdraw its proposals or to amend the new roster in any meaningful way," said the PCS union on Friday (5 April). "An overwhelming 90% of members voted for strike action, knowing that they deserve better from their employer.
"The suspension of the strike gives the Home Office the opportunity to resolve the dispute. If there is no progress in the talks, strike action will take place."
Fran Heathcote, PCS general secretary, added: “This is a significant move on the part of PCS that demonstrates a genuine will to work constructively in devising a new roster system that is acceptable to our members, particularly those with disabilities or those with caring responsibilities.
"This does not end the dispute. It is an opportunity for the Home Office to demonstrate they are genuinely seeking a resolution.”
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