Stansted: Baggage Handlers To Strike

14 October 2013, 17:03 | Updated: 14 October 2013, 17:05

Baggage handlers and check-in staff employed by Swissport are walking out in a row over pay

Baggage handlers and check-in staff at a company serving four airports including Stansted have voted to strike in a row over pay.

Unite said its members at Swissport backed industrial action by 94% in a turnout of just over 50%. 

The union said it has 1,000 members at the firm, based at Gatwick, Heathrow, Manchester and Stansted airports. 

Talks will be held on Wednesday to try to resolve the dispute. Unite national officer Oliver Richardson said: "In the light of this overwhelming mandate for action Swissport has requested talks which we are happy to attend so we can try to resolve this matter. 

"The dispute centres on the company's decision to freeze workers' pay for 18 months, from April 2012 through to October 2013, followed by a below inflation increase of just 2.5%. 

"Our members are struggling to keep up with the rising cost of living and Unite believes Swissport is failing to recognise the contribution its staff are making to the success of the company.''