Sandwell council electricians win better pay, photo Sandwell Unison branch

Sandwell council electricians win better pay, photo Sandwell Unison branch   (Click to enlarge: opens in new window)

Electricians at Sandwell Council, West Midlands have won better pay. Unison local government union members had been taking action short of striking since 6 January, after voting 100% on a 94% turnout for both action short of strike action and strike action.

Unison members were to be joined by Unite and GMB in a week-long strike from 2 March. Preparations for picket lines were well advanced, but at the eleventh hour senior management confirmed that electricians will be placed on a higher grade backdated to April 2018. Tony Barnsley, Sandwell Unison branch secretary told the Socialist: “Our members were solid and determined to win the better grade that will see their pay eventually rise by £5,000. Unity in action can secure victories.

Socialist Party reporters