Strikes by logistics workers at BAE Systems' Clyde shipyards threaten to derail the already-delayed construction of HMS Glasgow, the first of eight Type 26 frigates for the Royal Navy, unions have warned.
GMB Scotland said support staff employed by GXO Logistics, who supply tools, materials and equipment to the yards, will walk out on Monday after rejecting a three-year pay offer worth 3.5% in the first year and 3% in each of the following two years. The union argued the deal fails to match the pay secured by BAE Systems staff or close the salary gap between the two workforces.
“97% of GXO Logistics workers at BAE Systems Clyde shipyards voted to strike, risking delays to HMS Glasgow.”
“Logistics workers are fundamental to the successful operation of these yards and GXO management must understand their determination to ensure their role is properly recognised and fairly rewarded,” said Rory Steel, GMB Scotland organiser. In an official ballot, 97% of workers backed industrial action on an 84% turnout.
Steel emphasised the strikes were about more than money. “This not only about pay but fairness and respect,” he said. “How can colleagues, working beside each other in similar roles of similar value, be paid differently? BAE Systems brought GXO in to cut costs but our members are not prepared to accept wages below their worth.”
Walkouts are scheduled at shipyards in Govan and Scotstoun on Monday and Tuesday, followed by strikes at BAE Systems supply hubs in Linwood, Renfrewshire, on Thursday and Eurocentral, Lanarkshire, on Friday.
A BAE Systems spokesperson said: “This is a matter for GXO Logistics and its workforce. We have made temporary arrangements to minimise any impact to our activities from the strike action.”
The disruption comes as HMS Glasgow, the first Type 26 frigate, has already faced construction delays, raising questions over whether the Royal Navy's schedule for the eight-vessel programme can be maintained.