Industry awaits final votes of 2,000 fuel tanker drivers
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AS CM WENT to press, final votes were being cast by the 2,000 fuel tanker drivers being balloted by union Unite over their employment terms and conditions.
Following a series of talks between Unite and six fuel distribution firms – BP, DHL, Hoyer, Norbert Dentressangle, Turners (Soham) and Wincanton – a set of proposals was reached by all parties covering key areas including safety, training and pensions. However, Unite officials attending an oil trades conference last month recommended that drivers reject the latest deal in the national ballot (CM 3 May), saying that the proposals lack detail and more assurances and guarantees were needed from employers.
Representatives from the fuel firms are adamant that the negotiated proposals give drivers a fair deal and that this will be the final offer made. The issue of a minimum level of national pay for fuel tanker drivers remains a sticking point for all parties, with the six fuel firms believing it is not within their mandate to be able to dictate pay levels for the entire industry.
The results of the ballot are due to be announced tomorrow (11 May), with any industrial action needing to have taken place on or before 21 May following seven days’ notice by Unite of a strike.