Unite, the UK’s union for workers across the civil air transport sector, has issued its response to the proposed £5.7 billion takeover of easyJet by private equity firm Apollo.

Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: "Apollo has made broad statements about growing the business and working with its employees, however these warm words need to be translated into reality. Its growth strategy must translate into well-paid, unionised jobs and existing roles must be protected.

"Our members will always be our top priority at easyJet. Unite is committed to vigorously defending their jobs, pay and terms and conditions throughout the takeover and beyond."

Unite has thousands of members working as cabin crew for easyJet. The union is actively engaging with legal counsel and will be exercising its full right in accordance with the city code on takeover and mergers.

Unite regional coordinating officer Lindsey Olliver said: “Unite will ensure that employees’ terms and conditions, as well as collective bargaining, are protected in accordance with the relevant legislation and agreements.

“However, the true strength of our members lies in their industrial power. We look forward to working with Apollo to ensure those protections remain in place going forward.”

ENDS

Notes to editors

For media enquiries ONLY please contact Unite press officer Natasha Wynarczyk on 07970081524

Email: natasha.wynarczyk@unitetheunion.org