Katrine Williams, PCS member
PCS union members have seen our wages cut in real terms by over 20% since 2010, due to government pay restrictions. On top of this, we now face a cost-of-living crisis of epic proportions. This year’s paltry pay limit is 2-3%, compared to a current RPI inflation rate of 12.6%.
The union is balloting its 150,000 civil service members for strike action in support of a 10% pay claim and to defend jobs. The ballot closes Monday 7 November, but ballot papers need to be posted by the end of October to make sure they arrive in time.
Socialist Party members in PCS are working hard to get members to vote – it’s vital we clear the Tory anti-union 50% turnout threshold. We are calling for a massive ‘yes’ vote to defend jobs, improve pay and protect pensions.
The Tory government is weak and divided, and no matter who leads it, there will be no gain for our members. Now is the time to act. We need to join with the other unions taking action. We need, wherever and whenever possible, to strike together to win for members, as part of a strategy of both targeted and all-members’ action.
PCS members in the courts are currently taking strike action from 22 to 30 October over a new ‘Common Platform’ computer system. This is supposed to allow court staff access to case information, but trials show it has increased working hours and stress levels.
