Windsor Castle Staff Threaten Action On Pay

Staff at Windsor Castle are threatening industrial action in a dispute over 'scandalous' pay.

Around 120 members of the Public and Commercial Services union who work for the royal attraction's visitor services, including guides and kitchen staff, are to be balloted over protest action.

If they back it, non-strike action would start at the end of April.

Windsor Castle, which is open to the public, is the Queen's official residence where she spends most of her private weekends.

PCS general secretary Mark Serwotka said: "These workers are loyal to their employer and absolutely committed to ensuring visitors are given the royal treatment.

"It is scandalous that staff are so appallingly paid and expected to do work for free that brings in money for the Royal Family."

Wardens are employed by the Royal Collection Trust.

A trust spokesperson said: "Warden staff are offered voluntary opportunities to receive training and develop skills to lead guided tours for visitors as part of their working day and to administer first aid, as well as to use their language skills.

"These are not compulsory aspects of their role, and it is the choice of the individual whether they wish to take part.

"Wardens at Windsor Castle are paid above market median based upon the Regional Living Wage and receive a range of benefits, including a 15% non-contributory pension and a free lunch.

"Royal Collection Trust continues to award wardens an annual performance-related pay increase of up to 2.5%, in addition to the cost of living increase (in line with treasury guidelines), as well as one-off payments to those who have reached the top of their pay scale.

"We don't anticipate any interruption to the running of tours for visitors to the Castle."