Workers at Legalease print company in London to take industrial action over low pay

Dozens of low-paid editorial, research and publishing staff at leading law publication firm Legalease are to take strike action this month to win a fairer pay offer.

Workers at Legalease produce the acclaimed industry bible, The Legal 500, which lists top firms, lawyers and barristers across the world. Yet workers are struggling on low salaries while needing to live and work in London.

Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: "These workers are chronically underpaid. This is a profitable company and can afford a much better offer. Legalease needs to urgently come back to the negotiating table or face the prospect of the Legal 500 ceasing production this month."

The workers have already rejected a 3.4 per cent pay offer and a revised £1200 uplift and will be taking strike action after no further improvement was forthcoming. Workers will be on the picket line from 14 to 25 September with the possibility of more strikes if Legalease don't improve their low offer.

Legalease has a history of poor workplace relations, with two members of staff fired due to trade union activities when Unite first sought recognition two years ago.

Unite regional officer Will Searby said: “Despite the fact that they can afford it, this employer has told the union that it is not in line with their ‘pay principles’ to raise pay when business is going well. The employer is entitled to their principles, but our members principles are different: they expect a fair share.

“There is still time for the strike action and the ensuing disruption to be averted but that requires Legalease to return to negotiations with a fair offer.”