The GMB union said it is frustrated that talks
between British Airways and unions have proved unsuccessful and it is now
talking of ballotting members over industrial action.
The parties spent last night discussing the
matter at conciliation service ACAS.
Kevin Curran, GMB general secretary, said:
"The GMB is extremely frustrated that the talks at ACAS were not productive.
"At all stages of these negotiations, the
GMB and BA staff have been clear that they want the imposition of ATR (swipe
cards) lifted.
"The concerns of BA staff over changes to
shift patterns and working practices are real and genuine. Our members are not
traditionally militant workers. Many have family responsibilities and they are
telling us that they want to retain some balance between work and home lives.
This is very much a dispute of the 21st century.
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"We are hoping to meet the company and the
other unions, but it will take major movement from the company to resolve this
dispute. If the company does not lift the imposition and address the real
issues a ballot on industrial action will follow."
