Ford workers go on strike
Workers at Ford plants across the UK have downed tools today in a dispute over pensions.
Workers at Ford plants across the UK have downed tools today in a dispute over pensions.
However, the motor giant said production lines at the seven sites where staff are taking action were not affected.
The Unite union, which represents 1,200 white-collar employees at Ford, said 67% of staff voted in favour of industrial action during a ballot in May.
Subscribe to MoneyWeek
Subscribe to MoneyWeek today and get your first six magazine issues absolutely FREE
Sign up to Money Morning
Don't miss the latest investment and personal finances news, market analysis, plus money-saving tips with our free twice-daily newsletter
Don't miss the latest investment and personal finances news, market analysis, plus money-saving tips with our free twice-daily newsletter
They are angry about plans to close the company's final salary pension scheme to new recruits and cut pay.
"We fiercely oppose the closure of Ford's final salary scheme to new entrants because we believe ultimately Ford will try to close the entire scheme," said Unite representative Roger Maddison.
"The UK has the best sales in Europe, there's no excuse to attack the terms and conditions of a new generation of Ford staff."
In a statement the manufacturer said: "Ford remains willing and available to continue discussions with the union representing these workers".
"The vast majority of the company's employees are not involved in this disagreement, or the decision to take industrial action," it added.
Ford employs 15,000 people in the UK.
Sign up to Money Morning
Our team, led by award winning editors, is dedicated to delivering you the top news, analysis, and guides to help you manage your money, grow your investments and build wealth.
-
5 steps to shield your money from the taxman before the Budget
Experts have warned Labour is planning a tax raid in its upcoming Budget. We share five steps to shield your money from the taxman
By Katie Williams Published
-
The trading apps that let you put fractional shares in an ISA
Advice HMRC is set to change ISA rules to allow fractional shares to be included in the tax wrapper. Here are the trading platforms and trading apps that support this.
By Marc Shoffman Published