Staff in three major government departments announce 36 days’ strike action

Cleaners, security guards and support staff in three major government departments have announced 36 days’ strike action. 

Around 100 Public and Commercial Services (PCS) union members employed by outsourced company ISS will down tools at the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero, Department for Business & Trade and Department for Science, Innovation & Technology from November 1 – 17 and from November 27 – December 15.

It follows previous well-supported action in September and earlier this month over a below-inflation pay offer of 2.2%, union recognition and improvements to terms and conditions.

PCS general secretary Mark Serwotka said: “The escalation of this dispute is because of the employer’s refusal to offer our members an improved deal.

“Since the dispute started there has been no movement from the employer, no formal pay talks, which, for our members, is unacceptable.

“We will not sit back and allow employers treat our members like this during a cost-of-living crisis.”

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