Tanker driver strikes remain a threat
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TRADES UNION Unite is demanding that fuel tanker drivers receive fixed national terms and conditions (T&Cs), or a strike will be on the cards.
The union, representing some 3,000 tanker drivers, has confirmed it will ballot members during February for industrial action.
Len McCluskey, Unite general secretary-elect, says: "Tanker drivers play a crucial role in the economy, delivering fuel safely and on time. But their industry, which is worth billions, is content to attack the drivers' pay, pensions and conditions."
The union claims letters it sent in August last year to oil companies, retailers and haulage bosses calling for a meeting were turned down. Recipients of the letter included Shell Tankers (UK) and Tesco.
Unite wants national standards introduced for drivers to achieve stability in the industry, and says it is going to push again for "employers to get around the table to resolve the outstanding issues through negotiations".
McCluskey warns if there is no co-operation for a meeting, he will promote industrial action. "Time and workers' patience is running out. Quite simply enough is enough," he says.