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Thousands of BT workers 'threaten to strike'
Friday 18th June 2010, by Daniel King
Thousands of households and businesses could have their broadband connections affected if a BT strike is carried out.
Members of the Communication Workers Union (CWU) have until July 5th to vote on the matter after ballot papers were sent out today (June 18th).
The issue has escalated after the employees rejected a two-per cent pay rise offer, as they hope to get an increase of five per cent.
This could mean a five-day walkout by over half of BT's staff, which may leave a large number of households without their usual phone and broadband connections.
Andy Kerr, deputy general secretary of CWU, said: "Our members have had a pay freeze, pension changes and redundancies over the last two years but now the company is profitable, inflation is high and BT is paying out big money to shareholders and senior executives."
The workers believe the company can afford a five per-cent pay rise, after the company announced a profit of over £1 billion in 2010.
More than 50,000 BT workers are represented by the union, so if a strike was to take place there is little doubt it would have a serious impact on the service that it offers.
Businesses may face a working week without their usual standard of internet, which could disrupt they way the operate.
BT had announced earlier this week that they plan to introduce fibre-optic broadband across London before the start of the 2012 Olympic Games.
This move would allow 87 per cent of people living in the capital to benefit from the service.
By Brian Palmer
