BA bosses make concessions

But workers must prepare for future attacks

THE PLANNED two-day strike of British Airways cabin crew on 30-31 January was called off following a deal between their union, the TGWU, and BA management. The determined stand of the crew - who had overwhelmingly backed strike action - has won some important concessions.

These include a two-year pay deal with basic pay rising by 4.6% from next month and in line with inflation in 2008, increased pay for crew who started after 1997 (to close their pay gap with those who started pre-97) and a climb-down by the bosses regarding some of their attacks on the right to sickness leave.

However, the TGWU has accepted BA's proposals to reduce its 'pension deficit' and the use of fewer higher-grade crew on long haul 747 flights. The cabin crew's show of strength has laid down an important marker for future battles.

BA bosses will be coming back with more attacks as part of their cost-cutting drive and move to Terminal 5, so the workforce needs maximum unity across the four main trade unions at BA and preparedness to fight again.

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