Royal Mail workers vote to continue strike action in bitter dispute over pay and conditions

Royal Mail workers have voted overwhelmingly to continue with a campaign of industrial action in the ongoing bitter dispute over pay, jobs and conditions.

A fresh ballot of members of the Communication Workers Union (CWU) showed almost 96 per cent were in favour of more strikes unless the deadlock is broken.

CWU general secretary Dave Ward said it was a ‘stunning’ result which showed that Royal Mail workers were determined to continue campaigning against plans to introduce changes in the company. He revealed that talks have been held with Royal Mail’s chairman and new members of the board with a view to ‘refresh’ talks to try to reach an agreement.

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Royal Mail has said the threat of more strike action will mean customers will opt to use competing businesses – but that they are implementing plans to minimise disruption.

A Royal Mail spokesperson said: “We are disappointed that the CWU members who took part in the ballot have voted to take further industrial action. Even the threat of more strike action by the CWU means more customers will switch their parcel business to our competitors.

“We remain committed to getting around the table with the CWU, resolving this dispute and agreeing a pay and change deal for our people. Should the CWU announce further strike action, we have plans to minimise disruption and get our services back to normal as soon as possible to keep people, businesses and the country connected.

“Royal Mail can have a bright future, and the CWU play a part in that, but further strikes and resistance to change by the CWU will only worsen our financial position and threaten the long-term job security of our postmen and women. Not changing is not an option in a business losing £1m a day.

“The company’s financial position is worsening with every strike day, and we know that it is well understood by our employees. Royal Mail reported losses of almost £300 million in the nine months to December 2022, two-thirds resulting from industrial action.

“We urge the CWU to seriously consider our best and final pay offer and to work with us to transform Royal Mail and secure its future. That is in the best interests of Royal Mail and all its employees.”

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