25/01/2010

BA Strike Vote Opens

Disgruntled British Airways cabin crew have begun voting on fresh strike action.

Last month the High Court ruled a December walk-out by staff was illegal, prompting union members to reenter negotiations with BA management.

However, Unite claimed the renewed talks had failed, and said it would ballot members from today.

Voting will close on 22 February, meaning strike action could be taken as soon as March.

Staff are angry at changes to working conditions and proposed job cuts by the carrier.

BA said it would cover in-flight staff with ground crew during the picket, which union bosses said would put passengers' lives at risk.

Len McCluskey, Unite's assistant general secretary said: "Cabin crew's dedication and skill kept a person alive when others had given up hope. BA should have nothing but praise for its loyal and dedicated cabin crew."

BA says any training programme for replacement staff would meet strict safety standards.

The airline lost £400m in profits last year due to a fall in demand for travel.

Last week management suggested any cabin crew taking part in the mooted industrial action could lose travel perks.

(PR/GK)

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