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Luton airport targeted for summer strike action

Workers at Luton airport are threatening two days of strike action on July 28 and August 1 in a pay dispute.

The Unite union warned that disruption to passengers and staff will be inevitable should the walkouts go ahead.

The workers employed by Apcoa Parking UK are calling on the company to enter into pay negotiations rather than imposing a below inflation 6% pay deal.

The workers potentially taking action include valet parking workers and bus drivers transporting passengers and staff from car parks to the airport terminal.

Strikes are planned from 6.30am on Friday, July 28 until Saturday, July 29 at 6.29am and again at 6.30am on Tuesday, August 1 until Wednesday, August 2 at 6.29am.

The union claimed that any strike “will inevitably mean delays for passengers and staff who use the car parks and terminal at Luton airport”. 

Unite regional officer Jeff Hodge said: Strike action will inevitably cause disruption to staff and passengers moving between the car park and the airport.

“Unite reps are meeting Apcoa next week, disruption could still be avoided if bosses offer workers a pay deal which helps them through the cost of living crisis.”

The latest dispute follows the withdrawal of a strike at Birmingham airport and the suspension of action by some ground handlers at Gatwick. 

A company spokesperson said: “Apcoa are due to meet Unite next week when we hope to resolve this matter satisfactorily for all parties involved.”

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