Browse Sections
Interactive
Popular Sections
Cold with some sunNews
Strike ballot starts for Tesco supply workers
16/12/2004
A BALLOT which could decide the future of 1,300 jobs at two local distribution depots takes place today (Thursday).
The drivers, warehouse and clerical staff at the two WIncanton depots at Stakehill, who provide the distribution service for Tesco supermarkets throughout the North are to vote on a new pay offer.
As revealed in the Guardian last month, the workers had previously voted to take strike action in support of their claim for a pay increase. But Tesco warned them that any strike action could mean them pulling out from the Middleton depots to safeguard supplies.
Lengthy talks between Wincanton and top national transport officers resulted in the revised offer. No details are being made available until the conclusion of the ballet.
Ron Webb, TGWU national secretary for transport, who led the negotiations with the company said: "Our people do a very responsible job for Wincanton and we believe this new offer recognises their contribution."
The ballot will conclude at noon tomorrow (Friday) with the result expected shortly after that. One worker said: "It's not so much the pay issue, but the conditions of service that are the main issue. But on balance I don't think anyone wants to go on strike near Christmas and the pay rise - backdated from last May - will give us a substantial sum in our pay packet.
Got an opinion you want to share?| Card | BT Fee |
| Virgin Credit Card | 2.98% |
| Capital One Low Rate Balance Transfer | 1.7% |
| Capital One Low Rate Platinum | HASH(0x2abf50bbff80) |
| Capital One Fixed Rate Card | 0.0% |
| Company | Typical APR |
| Platinum Exclusive Loan | 7.8% |
| Bank of Scotland (Semi-exclusive) | 8.6% |
| Halifax (Semi-exclusive) | 8.6% |
| Alliance & Leicester | 8.7% |
| Sainsbury's Personal Loan | 8.9% |
| Provider | AER* |
|
ICICI BANK HiSAVE Savings Account |
5.50% |
|
SAINSBURYS FINANCE Internet Saver |
4.00% |
|
FIRST DIRECT Everyday e-Saver |
2.75% |
|
ALLIANCE & LEICESTER Online Tracker |
6.00% |
|
ABBEY Instant Access Saver (Special Issue 2) |
6.00% |
|
ING DIRECT Savings Account |
6.00% |
|
ALLIANCE & LEICESTER eSaver - Issue 2 |
6.30% |
|
ABBEY eSaver Direct |
6.00% |
|
POST OFFICE Instant Saver |
3.75% |