Posties’ union threatens fresh strike after accusing Royal Mail of declaring ‘industrial war’

Union’s leaders prepare for another ballot as it accuses company of declaring ‘industrial war’ on workers

Royal Mail is facing the renewed threat of a first national postal strike in more than a decade after union leaders accused the company of declaring ­“industrial war” on its workers.

In a letter to union branches seen by The Daily Telegraph, the Communication Workers Union (CWU) said it will “begin preparations for another national ballot for industrial action, while supporting local ballot requests”, after talks with the company broke down over changes to working conditions.

In a post on social media, CWU general secretary Dave Ward added: “Talks with Royal Mail have broken down and we are now moving towards re-balloting our members for industrial action. We will run the biggest campaign the movement has ever seen.”

The union was blocked from taking strike action in the run-up to the general election and Christmas period after the High Court supported Royal Mail’s bid for an injunction last November. The judge agreed with Royal Mail that members had been “encouraged” to vote immediately at work, rather than at home or away from the office where there would be less pressure.

At the time the CWU accused the company of a “cowardly and vicious ­attack on its own workforce”.