WIREDGOV

Members of PCS working for the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) in Jobcentres, the Pension service and Child Support Agency (CSA) have voted strongly for strike action in a dispute over the threatened imposition of a below inflation pay offer, which would see approximately 40% of staff receive 0% pay increase next year.

62% of those voting in the ballot backed strike action over the possible imposition of a three year pay offer, which sees cost of living increases for longer serving staff members of 2% this year, 0% next year and 1% in the final year.  The pay offer averages just 1% a year over the three years.

The PCS, DWP Group Executive Committee will meet tomorrow to discuss options for industrial action including a two day stoppage. Meanwhile the union has written to the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions urging him to intervene and kick start negotiations in order to avert a dispute.

Commenting, Mark Serwotka, PCS general secretary, said: "It is completely unacceptable that the department should seek to impose pay cuts in real terms on hardworking staff who have borne the brunt of massive job cuts. The anger of staff is illustrated by this strong vote in favour of strike action over an offer that will see the lowest paid receive only 24 pence above the minimum wage if it is imposed. We urge the department to step back from provoking industrial action and re-enter talks on a pay deal that recognises the important role staff play in delivering essential public services."