Strike negotiations may be required in Serco Docklands row

Rail and Maritime Transport union members are being balloted over strike action against Serco Docklands.

Strike negotiation techniques may be required by managers at Serco Docklands railway company after a union representing its staff said it will be taking a ballot over whether industrial action should be taken.

A row has erupted after the Rail and Maritime Transport (RMT) trade body said Serco Docklands has, among other issues, failed to consult over redundancies and had imposed a new roster that had not been agreed to by the organisation.

"Management at Serco Docklands continue to show total disregard for the idea of proper negotiation and consultation with this trade union on a number of issues," said Bob Crow, RMT general secretary.

He added that if the ballot demonstrates a strong 'yes' vote then employees will have revealed to their bosses they will not tolerate the attitude they have been shown.

This latest development comes after London Underground were faced with the prospect of workers walking out on Boxing Day as a result of a disagreement about how much they will be paid for the bank holiday.