`Intimidation' cools Barclays strike
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Bank union leaders accused Barclays management of using "intimidatory tactics" against their members after fewer branches closed in a walkout yesterday compared with previous strikes.
The Banking Insurance and Finance Union said that some members were going to work in tears after being warned by the bank that they would lose their jobs if they obeyed the strike call.
Barclays calculated that 99 branches were closed compared with more than 200 in two previous stoppages. A spokesman for management estimated that only 2,000 employees had walked out.
The company said it was pleased more staff had decided to work normally. The spokesman said only nine branches had closed in Wales compared with 40 last time.
Jim Lowe, assistant secretary at BIFU, reported "widespread disruption" with closures on Merseyside, Manchester, South Wales, Yorkshire, London and parts of the South-east.
Members of both BIFU and the Barclays staff union UNiFI are protesting over the imposition of a performance-related pay system which they believe will mean a pay freeze for 25,000 employees. Management insists that the proposed pay structure is fairer and will reward hard work.
- Barrie Clement, Labour Editor
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments