Baggage handlers' strike threatens Gatwick chaos
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.Hundreds of baggage handlers and maintenance workers at Gatwick Airport are to strike on Saturday in a row over workloads, threatening travel chaos, it was announced today.
Hundreds of baggage handlers and maintenance workers at Gatwick Airport are to strike on Saturday in a row over workloads, threatening travel chaos, it was announced today.
Members of the Transport and General Workers' Union employed by Servisair will also strike on September 30 if the dispute is not settled.
The two stoppages were announced after talks involving the conciliation service Acas failed to break the deadlock.
The TGWU said a row over increased workloads on baggage and cargo handlers, loaders and maintenance staff worsened when a senior union shop steward was "victimised" and suspended.
Almost 600 workers overwhelmingly backed industrial action in a ballot.
TGWU official Madeleine Richards said: "Workers are determined to protect their senior steward and to ensure justice. They have voted to strike because they believe their representative is facing trumped-up charges."
The union said industrial relations at Servisair's operations at Gatwick have been strained over the summer.
The strikes are due to start at 3am on both days.
* Workers who refuel aircraft for dozens of airlines at Heathrow, including British Airways, Virgin Atlantic and Qantas, are set to walk out for 48 hours from Friday in a separate row over pay.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments