Planned strike action at the GKN Automotive factory in Birmingham
has been suspended.
The workers at the factory in Chester Road were due to begin
strike action next week (Monday 27 September), in opposition to
the plans of the parent company Melrose GKN to cease production
and close the factory, which produces drivelines for the UK
automotive sector, next year.
Following a meeting this week between representatives of Unite
and Melrose GKN it was agreed that there would be an immediate
moratorium on work and machinery being taken out of the factory.
During this time Melrose GKN has agreed to attend a meeting of
the key stakeholders involved in seeking a way forward to keep
the factory open and ensure it plays a key role in the UK’s car
industries transition to electric vehicles.
As a consequence Unite has agreed to not begin industrial action
before Monday 18 October.
Unite national officer Des Quinn said: “In the spirit of good
will, the planned strike action has been suspended to allow for
talks about the future of the factory with key stakeholders to
take place.
“It is hoped that all sides can use this window of opportunity to
secure a long term future for the factory.
“Unite is dedicated to advancing the jobs, pay and conditions of
its members and will fight back against any efforts to diminish
workers' living standards.”
