Reading, 26.5.21: Standing with the #Sparks blockading #AWE in fight against de-skilling #No2ESO, photo RW

Reading, 26.5.21: Standing with the #Sparks blockading #AWE in fight against de-skilling #No2ESO, photo RW   (Click to enlarge: opens in new window)

Over 200 NG Bailey sparks and fitters walked off site at AWE Burghfield on 20 September over suspected blacklisting. The row started when workers were selected for transfer without notice, and told by the employer that it was AWE who had requested their removal. Anger spread through the workforce at the treatment of their colleagues. Workers held a meeting and sought answers from the management. The firm has responded with what workers saw as a lockout threat, while also sending official statements saying they would dock any workers taking part in an agreed meeting on site. The Socialist Party sends solidarity to the workers, who played a key role in the defeat of deskilling earlier this year by the construction electricians.