Engineers strike over sacked convenor

Members of the technical and professional union Amicus began an indefinite strike on 22 August at Rolls-Royce's aero engine plant in Bristol.

Their action was in support of union convenor Jerry Hicks who was sacked by the firm in July.

Ninety-six engineers responsible for testing engines at the Patchway plant were the first to take action. Amicus said that this would have an immediate impact on work at the site. It added that it could not rule out the possibility that the industrial action could spread.

According to the union, Hicks had been dismissed by the firm because of his trade union activities.

Deputy general secretary Doug Collins said: "We believe that Jerry has been attacked because of his work as a union official and we and our members at Bristol are committed to do everything they can to get Jerry reinstated.

"This is an unnecessary situation, entirely of Rolls-Royce's making, and we are calling for them to act now to do the right thing by Jerry and avert a damaging strike at the plant."

Hicks has rejected a cash settlement from Rolls-Royce. Both he and Amicus are campaigning for his full reinstatement.

Former MP and left-wing campaigner Tony Benn and RMT rail union leader Bob Crow joined a rally in Bristol in support of Hicks last month. Amicus is mobilising for a national march and rally as part of the campaign on 2 September.