MEMBERS of the Unite union who work at the Atomic Weapons Establishment are set to take part in a ballot for strike action during November.
From Friday, November 4, to Friday, December 2, Unite members at AWE sites in Aldermarston and Burghfield will be balloted to take part in strikes.
The 900 members at the sites are currently involved in a dispute with AWE management over pay increases which they feel are inadequate.
While they have been offered a 5% increase, Unite argues that this is “a considerable real terms pay cut” when compared to inflation rates.
With balloting due to conclude in early December, Unite says strike action could take place before Christmas if voted for by members.
Unite general secretary, Sharon Graham, said: “The workers at AWE are highly skilled and play a crucial role in maintaining the UK’s defence capability.
“It is outrageous that their employer is trying to force through a real terms pay cut.
“Unite is now entirely focussed on enhancing the jobs, pay and conditions of its members, the workers at AWE will receive the union’s complete support.”
Unite regional co-ordinating officer, Bob Middleton, said: “Members are balloting for strike action as a last resort, the AWE has been given every opportunity to make a pay offer which meets members’ expectations but it has chosen not to.”
The Atomic Weapons Establishment is a Ministry of Defence research facility responsible for the design, manufacture and support of warheads for the UK’s nuclear weapons.
