Port of Felixstowe: Unite threatens further action unless agreement over pay is reached

The union that led the eight day strike at the Port of Felixstowe has threatened further strike action unless an improved offer is made.

Around 1,900 workers put down their tools in protest over pay and conditions at Britain's largest container port on August 21 thanks to strike action by trade union Unite.

It called for workers to be given a 10 per cent pay rise to match the cost of living.

A seven per cent rise offered by the port authorities was rejected, and a vote in favour of action was delivered.

This included a one-off £500 bonus, although Unite said this fell 'below the rate of inflation'.

The Port, however, thought this offer was fair.

Unite has said that more strike action could be called if the company refuses to negotiate.

A Unite spokesperson said: “The ball is now firmly back in Felixstowe’s court. The employer has the opportunity to make a greatly improved offer which will end this dispute.

“If the employer declines this opportunity then further strike action is expected to be announced in the coming weeks.”

The Port of Felixstowe were approached for comment, but have yet to respond.