strike

Strike action by Booker drivers has been suspended pending the result of another member vote.

The strike action, due to have started on 4 October has been temporarily averted while the drivers based at Booker’s Thamesmead site vote on a set of proposals, the result of which is due to be announced on 11 October.

The dispute stems from Booker introducing a temporary £5 an hour pay uplift for drivers at its Hemel Hempstead depot because of the HGV driver shortage, but not doing the same for the drivers at the Thamesmead site.

Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: “Progress in this dispute is welcomed, but I urge Booker to understand that Unite remains dedicated to advancing the jobs, pay and conditions of all its HGV driver members across the UK and we will fight back against any efforts to diminish workers’ living standards.”

Unite regional officer Paul Travers added: “After three days of tough negotiations this week, we have agreed to take the proposals back to the drivers with a recommendation to accept.

“On that basis, we have suspended the threat of industrial action due to have started on Monday, while our members are being balloted. We expect the result to be announced on 11 October. Unite won’t be commenting further until then.”