Steve Ion, Merseyside Socialist Party
PCS members working for private sector company Hinduja Global Solutions (HGS), who support functions for the Home Office Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS), were on the picket line on 13 December. They are taking a further two weeks’ strike action plus an overtime ban.
They are out on strike over pay and conditions On pay, they have been made a 3.25% offer, which is well below inflation On terms and conditions, the union is pressing for an increase in annual leave entitlements, and improved sick pay and paid breaks.
The PCS met ACAS, the conciliation service, after the employer had called for talks in October, but talks have broken down.
The employer offered a new two-year deal, but the year one offer was unacceptable. They completely ignored the counter-proposals of the union.
Support remains strong, and members are determined to carry on. Bringing the work in-house as well is something the union continues to press for, as the renewal of the contract is up next year. Members are to be reballoted in the new year.
The Hinduja Group own this operation. The primary shareholder is the richest man in the UK, with a personal wealth of £28.4 billion. The company can well afford the increase.
As members prepare for the fifth and sixth week of action, any financial assistance will be greatly appreciated:
- PCS Fighting Fund Levy Account
- Sort Code 60 -83-01
- Account number 20331490
- Quote transaction ref
- HGS Strike Donation
