Luton Airport pay win

Unite has secured a pay deal worth more than 19 per cent for around 200 staff employed by GH London Ground Handling at Luton airport.

The workers had voted for strike action late last year over the delayed payment of a retention bonus.

Strike action was avoided following negotiations with the company, during which a 10 per cent salary increase applicable from 1 July 2022 to 31 December 2022 and a £500 retention bonus was agreed.

The workers will also receive a nine per cent increase from 1 January 2023. In addition, if the RPI inflation rate is higher than 9 per cent in May 2023, the workers will receive the difference as a further percentage pay increase from June 2023.

Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said, “This is a great deal and a testament to the hard work of Unite’s GH London Ground Handling reps and the solidarity of our members.

“Once again, Unite’s total focus on improving jobs, pay and conditions has resulted in real material gains for our members.”

Unite regional officer Jeff Hodge added, “This pay deal is another reminder that those wanting better wages and working conditions should join Unite and get their colleagues to join as well.”

By Ryan Fletcher