Talks aim to avoid industrial action

Mon Oct 19 2009 12:37:41

Crucial talks aimed at averting a dispute at British Airways are being held following the airline's move to announce job cuts and a pay freeze.

Chief executive Willie Walsh is meeting leaders of the Unite union in a bid to head off the threat of industrial action.

The union has accused the firm of imposing lower pay rates and worse conditions for new staff, as well as cutting 3,700 jobs and freezing pay for two years.

The company said cost savings were urgently needed because of losses caused by the downturn in air travel during the recession.

Meanwhile officials from the train drivers union Aslef are meeting to decide whether to accept a pay offer from London Underground.

Leaders of the Rail Maritime and Transport union (RMT) have already turned down the proposed deal and ordered a ballot for strike action.

London Underground has offered a two year pay deal of 1.5 per cent this year and 0.5 per cent next year.

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