GMB union balloting JCB workers over strike action

The GMB union is balloting 1,200 weekly-paid JCB workers over strike action at the firm’s plans to move all workers to monthly pay.

The firm employs more than 4,000 people at factories in Rocester, Cheadle and Uttoxeter and 18 months ago it signalled its intention to move its remaining weekly-paid employees to monthly pay. It said 70% of its workers are already paid monthly and the switch was in-line with other global companies and was also aimed at streamlining the payroll system.

In a statement the firm said: "To make the transition as easy as possible for those affected, the company has offered interest-free loans of up to £1,500, which can be repaid over a maximum of two-and-a-half years."

Initially JCB wanted the switch to take place in April 07 but following representations by the GMB that was moved to July/August during the factory shutdown.

However, in April, the union said most members voted to reject the company’s interest-free loans proposal and it is now balloting 900 weekly-paid shop floor workers at Rocester plus 300 in Wrexham over industrial action. Union members have until 5 July to register their vote.