Rolls-Royce workers strike in support of sacked union rep

Rolls-Royce workers at its Bristol plant are to begin strike action tomorrow in support of a sacked union official.

The action will initially involve 96 engineers responsible for testing engines, but the Amicus union warned the “indefinite” strike could spread.

The union said Jerry Hicks had been sacked by the company because of his trade union activities.

Rolls-Royce would not comment on the action at the plant, which makes engines for military aircraft, its second-biggest in the UK.

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Amicus claims that Hicks was sacked after accusations that he organised unofficial strike action in support of two fitters facing disciplinary procedures.

Doug Collins, the union’s deputy general secretary said: “We believe that Jerry [Hicks] has been attacked because of his work as a union official and we are committed to do everything we can to get him re-instated.”