Faslane nuclear submarine base workers balloted for strike action in row over pay

Workers at Scotland's nuclear submarine bases have been balloted for strike action in a row over pay.

Hundreds of civilian staff employed at Faslane and Couport naval bases on the Clyde could walk out unless bosses at Babcock Marine table an improved offer.

Unite said its 600 members had already voted to reject a pay deal that works out as a seven per cent rise backdated to August last year.

The trade union insisted the offer represented a substantial pay cut as the RPI rate of inflation stood at 9.1 per cent when the pay increase was due.

The two-week ballot opens tomorrow and closes on 11 June.

Sharon Graham, Unite general secretary, said: "Our membership at Coulport and Faslane fully deserve a fair pay increase. Babcock Marine is a wealthy company that can easily afford to make a decent offer to its workers.

"Pay offers which in real terms amount to sizeable pay cuts, just won’t cut it. We will support our members’ fight for better jobs, pay and conditions all the way.”

James O’Connell, Unite industrial officer, said: "Babcock Marine need to get serious about its pay offer or face significant disruption as a result of industrial action.

"Babcock Marine must take the opportunity to make a decent offer, but they should be under no illusions as to the determination of our members to get what they deserve."

Babcock Marine was awarded a contract in March 2021 by the MOD to provide services for the nuclear weapon system at Coulport, as well as the Strategic Weapon Support Building (SWSB) Faslane.

A spokeswoman for Babcock said: "We are disappointed that we have been unable to reach an agreement at this stage, however, we remain committed to ongoing engagement with Unite representatives to find a mutually acceptable resolution."

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