Wincanton oil tanker drivers set to go out on strike

Wincanton oil tanker drivers are poised to commence a week long series of strikes tomorrow (24 January), according to Unite.

The drivers, who deliver to Jet forecourts across the UK on behalf of client oil company ConocoPhillips, voted for strike action earlier this month.

Unite says ConocoPhillips’ decision to abandon Transfer of Undertakings Protection of Employment (TUPE) Regulations for tanker drivers and introduce new contracts will result in a 20% pay cut.

The action is set to affect distribution depots at Immingham, Lincolnshire; Kingsbury, Warwickshire; and Stockton-on-Tees with more than 120 Wincanton tanker drivers set to walk out.

Talks between Wincanton and Unite have so far proved fruitless.

Matt Draper, Unite national officer, says: “The frustration expressed by Wincanton’s oil tanker drivers can be seen right across the sector.

“Drivers are under increasing strain, working in a very unstable industry with pressure to deliver fuel around the clock, but where terms and conditions are being slashed.”

Wincanton is due to comment on the situation later today.