Police call-out anger intensifies industrial dispute

The start of industrial action at a DHL Supply Chain site has become more fractious after union officials accused the company of “wasting police time”.

The eight days of strikes began at the Liverpool site on Saturday in a dispute over pay and the treatment of workers. The strike action by 120 staff was triggered by the dismissal of a number of Unite members.

The site, at the junction of the M57 and East Lancs, is responsible for the Burton Biscuits and AB World Foods delivery contracts, including Wagon Wheels, Jammie Dodgers, Patak sauces and Blue Dragon products.

Unite said the company bosses at DHL Supply Chain had called out police “at least 10 times” to the picket line.

Unite regional officer Kenny Rowe said: “DHL should respect the government guidelines issued to police forces last month that striking workers can undertake socially distanced picketing during lockdown, as it is covered by the exception on the right to go to work.

“DHL is flagrantly relying on police to try to break a lawful dispute. Of course, feelings are high and nobody wants to be on strike. However, I believe DHL has called the police without due cause and have alleged incidents that simply have not occurred in an attempt to discredit a peaceful picket line.”

Talks between the company and the union have previously broken down despite Acas involvement.

A spokesperson for DHL Supply Chain said: “We recognise the union’s right to protest, but as our number one priority is the safety of our colleagues and the general public, we ask that this be done safely and peacefully. We would also ask that social distancing measures are observed at all times.

“Our contingency plans are working and our door remains open for further dialogue to reach a mutually acceptable conclusion for all parties as soon as possible.”

The strike action is running from Saturday until Christmas Eve, and is scheduled to restart on December 29 for four more 24-hour stoppages.