Trade union Unite says it will ballot tanker driver members on industrial action over terms and conditions next month.
The union argues that over the past ten years contractors responsible for the delivery of oil and petrol have been squeezing the terms and conditions of around 3,000 tanker drivers.
“The constant transfer of contracts between contractors has led to drivers’ wages, pensions and working conditions being eroded. The pattern has become particularly pronounced over the last 18 months.”
General secretary-elect, Len McCluskey, said: “This is not about pay. Our demands are very reasonable. We are calling for national standards to bring stability to the industry. It would benefit our members but it would also benefit the multitude of contractors in the industry too.”
The union says it expects the employers to get round the table to resolve the outstanding issues through negotiations.
“However, In the past when disputes did get to the point where industrial action was required the union ensured that fuel supplies for essential services were not affected.”
