Workers at nuclear submarine bases could strike if their wage offer is rejected

Workers at two nuclear bases in Scotland could strike for pay after a proposed increase was rejected.

Unite union members in Coulport and Faslane will be asked to vote on industrial action, meaning up to 600 people could walk out.

Babcock Marine (Clyde) Ltd, which provides specialist services for Britain’s nuclear submarines, has proposed a 7% pay rise backdated to August 2023 and 3% from August this year.

The union said the offer represents a substantial pay cut since the real rate of inflation, RPI, stood at 9.1% when the pay rise was planned in August last year.

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The offer was rejected by 99% of members in a ballot, with Unite saying Babcock Marine accrued almost £45 million in after-tax profit over the period 2018 to 2022.

Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: “Unite members in Coulport and Faslane fully deserve a fair pay rise. Babcock Marine is a wealthy company that can easily afford to make a decent offer to its workers.

“Wage offers which, in real terms, translate into significant pay cuts, simply will not be enough. We will support our members’ fight for better jobs, better pay and better conditions to the end.”

Unite industrial manager James O’Connell said: “Babcock Marine must take its pay offer seriously or face significant disruption as a result of industrial action.

“Babcock Marine should take the opportunity to make a decent offer, but they should be under no illusions about our members’ determination to get what they deserve.”

Babcock Marine has been contacted for comment.