McPherson HGV drivers to hold strike ballot

Scottish haulier McPherson says the economic downturn has resulted in its drivers balloting for industrial action after being dissatisfied with their pay offer.

Unite union members will vote for action on 10 November to push the Aberlour firm into paying the company's 100 drivers £12/hour.

Unite regional industrial officer Tommy Campbell says the hourly rate of £8.48 is too low. "Drivers at this Scottish haulage company have suffered low wages for too long," he adds.

"Their pay does not match what we believe should be paid for the professional responsibilities they have to carry out when working on the road."

A spokeswoman for the family-owned haulage company, which specialises in bulk spirit transportation, says: "The company has put a number of offers to the drivers and we look forward to sitting down with the union to discuss an equitable solution. We are keen to progress a realistic deal with Unite as soon as possible.