Royal Mail workers vote overwhelmingly to strike

The Communication Workers Union (CWU) said 95.9% had voted to continue the strike, with a turnout of 77.3%.

The CWU tweeted: “Breaking: Postal workers have made history.

“CWU members in Royal Mail Group have delivered the biggest ever return in a major national strike ballot.

“Simply stunning,” it added.

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This makes this vote the biggest mandate for strike action since the implementation of the 2016 Trade Union Act, the CWU said.

Around 115,000 postal workers who are part of the union have repeatedly walked out in recent months, including the busy run-up to Christmas, over pay and contracts.

Commenting on the vote, the CWU’s General Secretary Dave Ward said: “After two national ballots, 18 days of action, constant management intimidation and scores of unjust disciplinary cases against their colleagues, postal workers have shown their dignity and determination once again.

“This vote is a historic testament to CWU members across the country who have stood firm against the most severe attacks faced by any set of workers since the miners.

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“I urge responsible voices in Royal Mail’s leadership to take stock of what has happened today.”

The Royal Mail claims the industrial action is losing the company £1m a day and worsening their financial position, threatening the long-term job security of employees.

A spokesperson said: “We are disappointed that the CWU members who took part in the ballot have voted to take further industrial action.

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“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.

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“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.”

Royal Mail reported a 12.8% fall in revenue in the nine months to December, with strike action significantly contributing to a £295m operating loss, which Royal Mail anticipates will rise to between £350m and £450m this year.