Rolls-Royce workers strike

Ninety-six engineers at Rolls-Royce in Bristol are striking in support of a sacked trade union official.

Workers at the military aircraft engine maker’s site at Filton in Bristol downed tools “indefinitely” as of midnight in sympathy with Amicus convenor Jerry Hicks.

Rolls-Royce sacked Mr Hicks last month, accusing him of organising unofficial industrial action in support of two co-workers who faced the sack and breaching rules on modern working practices.

But at a preliminary hearing of an employment tribunal, Mr Hicks’ appeal was upheld. The tribunal said Mr Hicks was probably dismissed because of his trade union activity.

Doug Collins, Amicus deputy general secretary, agreed, saying he believed Mr Hicks was “attacked” for his views.

Rolls-Royce refused to reinstate Mr Hicks, offering him a £50,000 pay-off instead. Mr Hicks declined the offer, demanding his old job back.

There are 3,600 workers at Rolls-Royce in Bristol.