Strike action by engineers at Fox’s Biscuit factory in Batley Yorkshire has been averted after the workforce accepted an improved pay offer.

Improved offer

The 36 engineers who are members of Unite, the UK’s leading union, had voted in favour of strikes in a pay dispute and announced industrial action, which would have disrupted Christmas production.

Following the announcement of industrial action, fresh talks were held and an improved pay offer was made. The workers were balloted on the new offer and it was accepted, ending the dispute.

Important win

Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: “This was an important win for a distinctive group of workers who had never taken industrial action previously. Their commitment and determination ensured they secured a greatly improved pay deal.”

Under the deal, the workers will receive a 13.5 per cent pay increase (a 6.5 per cent pay increase backdated to 1 April for this year and a seven per cent increase for next year). The final pay deal was six per cent more than previously offered.

In addition, the workers will see the number of days they have to wait before receiving sick pay reduced from two days to one. They will also receive full sick pay for 10 weeks rather than the current eight weeks. The engineers also received a £100 one off payment for accepting the offer.

Solidarity

Unite regional officer Chris Rawlinson said: “The dispute has built a strong sense of solidarity among our members. The union will be building on this victory, in future pay negotiations and will also seek to secure formal recognition for our members at the company.”

ENDS

Notes to editors:

Shoppers facing Christmas Fox’s Biscuit shortages as Batley workers take strike action in pay cut dispute

For media enquiries ONLY please contact Unite senior communications officer Barckley Sumner on 07802 329235 or 0203 371 2067.

Email: barckley.sumner@unitetheunion.org

Unite is the UK and Ireland’s leading union fighting to protect and advance jobs, pay and conditions for members working across all sectors of the economy. The general secretary is Sharon Graham.