Public and Commercial Services Union

Live updates from the day were posted on this page. Scroll down for earlier posts. View updates from 1230 onwards on this page.

We were also tweeting throughout the day from the PCS Twitter account with updates from picket lines, marches, rallies and other key events, using the hashtag #n30.

---

1230 Read updates from 1230 onwards

 

1227 Plaid Cymru assembly member Leanne Wood, attending the Cardiff demo, says support for the strike has been overwhelming. Leanne is the chair of the PCS parliamentary group in the Welsh Assembly.

 

1226 It's not to late to join PCS - here's how.

 

1224 Update from Liverpool - March starting to progress more quickly through city centre. People lining the pavements applauding the marchers.

 

1223 Thousands assembling for Birmingham march.

 

1219 Not a member? See how much you will lose on your pension with the PCS pensions calculator and then join today.

 

1219 Well attended rally at Reading Irish Centre. Over 200 people from various unions. Speakers from NUT, GMB, ATL, PCS, TUC, Probation Officers union and Reading SOS.

 

1218 From PCS on Twitter - "Normally unsupportive Evening Standard columnist says public sector pensions are not unaffordable #pcs #n30"

 

1217 Update from Liverpool: Steady - but slow - progress is being made from the Pier Head into the centre of the city. Major roads across the city have been brought to a standstill. Excellent turnout among PCS members.

 

1215 Jim Lloyd, the PCS’s Branch Chair in Liverpool, said that of the 500 staff who work in the MOD’s office in Exchange Flags, only 14 had gone into the offices by 11am.

Mr Lloyd said: “This movement is gaining momentum – people don’t want the cuts.

“Those who’ve gone into the office this morning were not union members.

“Various government ministers are appearing on television talking about the inconvenience of the strikes – but what they aren’t addressing is the impact that their cut-backs will have on public sector workers.

“They need to change course - and they need to do it quickly.”

Tom Stevens has worked for the MOD in Liverpool for 25 years.

Mr Stevens said: “I’m now at the point where I earn just over £20,000.

“I simply can’t afford to receive less pay and pay more in pension contributions - I can't believe that the government is wanting to punish public sector workers like this.”

 

1214 Another good liveblog at the Pensions Justice site too.

 

1213 Live blog of todays action at the University and College Union (UCU) site.

 

1210 Big UCU crowd of about 100 - along with Goldsmiths Labour Students and GMB banners - outside Charing Cross station chanting for a General Strike. Posters include the quite memorable, "Gandalf Wouldn't Let This Pass"

 

1209 Highlights so far:

• UK Border Agency - massive support for the strike.  Highlights include:
  • - In Dover and Portsmouth, support for the strike is rock solid
  • - In Calais, pleas by managers for strikers to stay on were ignored, leaving one Immigration Officer to operate the entire Calais frontier
  • - In Croydon, Immigration Enquiry Bureau and Asylum Screening Unit closed
• Criminal Records Bureau - 99% of members on strike.  Office is all but shut down.  Only a handful of senior managers keeping it open.
• DVLA Stockton closed – would’ve been busy with end of month car tax renewals
• Battle bus in London touring workplaces – 300 outside Camden Town Hall and 500 at UCL
• Margate HMRC enquiry centre closed – usually one of the busiest in the country
• Significant disruption in all courts in Poole, Dorset. In addition unions managed to get the Poole lifting Bridge to open which caused traffic chaos into town centre.     
• No courts running in Wiltshire
• Huge support for strike in Belfast – BBC reporting you can’t go far in the city without seeing a picket line.

1207 Taken photos from your picket line? Send your pics to us at 30nov@pcs.org.uk, and they'll be added to the PCS 30 November flickr pages.

 

1206 Sign up for our campaigns newsletter and text alerts to keep up to date with the latest from our campaign against the cuts.

 

1204 More great photos added to the PCS 30 Nov flickr pages. Send your pics to us at 30nov@pcs.org.uk

 

1203 The Liverpool march to the city centre from the pier head has just begun. The sound of whistles and horns is constantly increasing.

 

1202 PCS members in Belfast in great mood after successful pickets. They are now assembling at the Art College for a march to City Hall with other unions.

 

1201 From feedback provided so far we're estimating 84% turnout nationally.

 

1200 From PCS on Twitter - ITV's Loose Women just asked us some questions about civil service pay. Will they be discussing the strike at 12.30pm? #pcs #n30

 

1157 Ministry of Justice round up:

• Old Bailey-  only one third of courts working. Stephen Lawrence case going ahead with support of PCS. Imran Khan wearing Hands off our Pensions badge in court. There is a combined GMB and PCS picket.
• Fulham and South West London magistrates courts both closed.      
• Woolwich Crown Court- No hearings.
• Snaresbrooke - 6 out of 20 in bail hearings only.
• Suffolk Crown Court- Only partial hearings.
• Royal Courts of Justice - Significant disruption. 5 members on picket line for first time.
• Croydon ET- 7 on picket line, none on J30. Post stopped and a judge also made a donation to the hardship fund.

1154 Several thousands are assembled in front of Liverpool's Royal Liver building waiting to begin the march to the city centre. Superb turnout with all major unions represented. Union flags are being waved and the sound of whistles and horns are ringing out.

 

1151 From PCS on Twitter - "#righttostrike leads @SkyNews poll on 72% tweet #righttostrike to vote #N30" Get tweeting if you haven't already! Tweet #righttostrike

 

1149 From PCS on Twitter - "Only one person working in Bradford Combined Court. Come on, you know you want to. #pcs #n30"

 

1147 Public advised that JobcentrePlus in Cwmbran is unable to offer all services due to todays action.

 

1146 At the student loan company the one strike breaker came out of the building after 20 minutes and joined the union.

 

1145 From Department of Health, Skipton House "PCS and FDA on the picket line, 80% not in today"

 

1144 More than 90% of members join strike at Heathrow where we have about 1200 members.

1143 Live blog also online at the Unison site

 

1141 The Guardian also have live coverage of the strike online.

 

1140 Huge support for strike in Belfast. PCS members now assembling for march alongside other unions to rally at Belfast City Hall.

 

1139 From PCS on Twitter - "just left parliament picket - central london quieter than a sunday #pcs #n30"

 

1138 More great photos added to the PCS 30 Nov flickr pages. Send your pics to us at 30nov@pcs.org.uk

 

1137 Some highlights so far:

• From feedback provided so far we're estimating 84% turnout nationally
• More than 90% of members join strike at Heathrow where we have about 1200 members.
• HMRC Porthmadog closed - no Welsh speaking services today
• Excellent joint PCS, FDA & Prospect pickets on Whitehall at Foreign Office, DoH, MoD, DECC, Cabinet Office and HMRC HQ's, and with GMB at Houses of Parliament.
• MoJ Royal Courts and principal registry family division - 14 pickets PCS & NAPO. 80% support with judges refusing to sit as no clerks.
• Less than a third of court sitting at Newcastle Combined Court. Only one person in Bradford Combined Court.
   

1136 Watch Mark Serwotka speaking live on BBC news.

 

1135 Live reporting of the strikes also being reported on BBC news site.

 

1133 From PCS on Twitter - "#PCS campaigners are in the south east corner of Lincolns Inn Fields, London, with materials for the demo. Grab some! #n30 #London"

 

1131 Only 7 out of 57 people working in the facilities department of the House of Commons today.

 

1129 From PCS on Twitter - "PCS Union, @pcs_union is now trending in #Liverpool"

 

1129 Our Twitter feed is back up! Follow us @pcs_union

 

1127 Police outside Parliament unable to give directions to tourists because they've all been drafted in from Kent because of the strike. Haven't any local knowledge and all looking very confused.

 

1126 From Durham Land Registry "350+ staff on strike. 95% of members! Hard to beleive but even stronger than J30. Live interviews on Radio Newcastle, and reporters from Northern Echo. 20 pickets with Uniison picket line across the road at University Hospital."

 

1125 Have you read our Fair pensions for all leaflet? If not, download it today (PDF)

 

1123 A huge thank you to all members for the dedication shown today. It's already been a massively successful day. Thank you too for all your strike stories. If you haven't sent yours over yet, please do so by texting 07624 806 232.

 

1120 Historic public sector strike causes huge disruption - Read our press release.

 

1119 In Glasgow there are three big pickets within yards of each other in Boswell Street.

At the Health and Safety Executive PCS members have been joined by colleagues from Prospect for the first time. All of the health and safety inspectors have come out on strike.

At the student loans company out of 1,200 staff only about 20 have gone into work.

PCS rep Alan Bennett, said: "I was out on 30 June and there's a real increase in number of members public stopping to give us support.

Linsay McKenzie said there has been a fantastic response: "One person went through picket line this morning spent 20 minutes at his desk walked out and signed a union membership form."

Canteen staff who work for a private company came out and gave us all tea.

At the Employment Tribunal half of the workers are out on strike.

David Lavery, branch chair, said: "We work in a shared building and we're getting excellent support from other organisaiton and passing motorists."
 

1118 There are just 15 out of 80 chefs working in the House of Commons today. PCS member and striker David Bickford said, "Senior managers are going to learn how to cook again. Expect beans on toast for the MPs!"

 

1117 From Ministry of Defence Donnington "Combined picket at two entrances. 60 at one entrance and 150 at the other. Now gathering for the official TUC rally at donnington. Extensive media coverage at pickets and expected at rally."

 

1115 From Bradford combined court "only one person in."

 

1113 Twitter appears to think we're over our daily amount for tweets, so we may be quiet for a bit. You can still get the latest here, and we'll be regularly posting updates at the PCS Union Member group on Facebook.

 

1111 PCS Ministry of Justice members say more strikers than 30 June. Major disruption at courts including Northampton, Stoke, Nottingham.

 

1111 Excellent joint PCS, FDA and Prospect pickets on Whitehall at Foreign Office.

 

1110 Ellen Cave, 89, in a wheelchair and wrapped up against the cold, wearing a PCS Hands off my Pension sticker. Outside the Houses of Parliament, says she's waiting for David Cameron because... "I've come from Barking today with my son as I'm browned off with all the government's lies. They're taking money out of the pension pot that some poor bugger has been busy saving up all their lives."

 

1109 Some of the highlights so far:

• MoJ reporting improved turnout on 30 June with major disruption at courts including Northampton Combined Court and Stoke Combined Court. Nottingham Magistrates Court not running. 
• HMRC reporting 87% staff on strike up 2% on 30 June with more picket lines
• Very good turnout and good response from public at Welsh Assembly, Cardiff where Unison members have also closed down Butetown tunnel
• British Museum - 85% on strike - 17 pickets - only two rooms open - local businesses feeding picketers
• National Museum of Scotland closed
• Information Commissioner's Office, Wilmslow -  Strong support, only 5 members of 215 gone in. Helpline closed for day.

 

1108 From Ministry of Defence main building in London. "Great turnout, Joint picket with PCS, Prospect and FDA. Chinese television and Spanish TV filmed the pickets. St George's court all but closed. North door closed to visitors. Old war office whitehall doors closed."

 

1105 Really big picket outside Camden town hall. Lots of Unison, GMB and RMT members. Very warm welcome for the battle bus, in spite of the cold weather.

 

1103 From PCS on Twitter - "Great joint picket at The Capital Building, Liverpool. PCS & Prospect together. Reports that offices deserted."

 

1102 Some great photos added to the PCS 30 Nov flickr pages. Send your pics to us at 30nov@pcs.org.uk

 

1056 National museum of Scotland is closed due to todays action.

 

1055 From PCS on Twitter - “Average female NHS worker's pension: £3,500. Average Managing Director's pension: £224,121. That's why we #strike. #N30"

 

1054 HM Courts and Tribunals Service at Wellington House in Glasgow reports more pickets than strike breakers. 10 pickets compared to only 7 strike breakers. Strike breakers are mainly managers. The vast majority of tribunals cancelled across Scotland due to the action.

 

1051 Check out PCS members' strike day photos on Flickr. Send yours to us at 30nov@pcs.org.uk

 

1051 See the CWU Facebook page for pics of their Capita workers striking over pay today - solidarity.

 

1050 PCS Newcastle strikers on BBC News now.

 

1049 From Ministy of Justice London Tribunals Branch "Best ever support for strike, strong pickets and support"

 

1047 From PCS on Twitter - "Plenty of PCS ponchos on show on our Flickr page."

 

1046 Sous chef for the House of Lords and PCS member Anderson Broomes was going to go into work today saying pressure was being applied by managers. But he refused to cross the picket and has joined members outside. Currently waving a big PCS flag and grinning. "I just couldn't do it", he said. "It's just a shame I can't nip inside and get the strikers a load of sandwiches from the kitchen! Sure the Lords have some to spare..."

 

1045 From Leicester - Leicester Crown Court down to one court due to action. Leicester County Court counter shut with phones unmanned. Aprox 90% staff out. Leicester Magistrates Court has 6 courts shut. 9 staff on picket lines. All 3 courts had strong pickets.

 

1043 Neil Harrison, secretary of the PCS National Museum of Wales branch said all seven sites around the country are closed.

Neil added: "The museum has its own pension fund but we are striking over the pay freeze and the potential effects of government cuts

"We are concerned about our ability to look after national treasures."

 

1043 Efan Jones, secretary of the Welsh government Prospect branch, said: "The government has given the bankers a tax break on their bonuses - and they are funding that from the public servants pensions."

 

1042 Unison strikers have closed the Butetown tunnel and there are no buses in Cardiff.

 

1042 Katie Antippus, PCS rep at the Welsh Assembly, Cathays Cardiff, said: "We've had a very good response, very few people crossing picket line, good support from other wokrers and the public who are shouting messages of support and beeping horns."

 

1041 Estimated 90% Of members so far out in support of strike UKBA Heathrow.

 

1040 From VOSA Edmonton and Yeading "18 picketing outside testing station, spirits high, heading to London now "

 

1039 PCS members outside Beaufort House in Belfast in good mood. They report that the reception from the public has been very positive. Only 26 workers crossed the picket line out of a staff of 300. ''Action is good, apathy is bad,'' said PCS activist Brian Magee.

 

1039 Some great photos added to the PCS 30 Nov flickr pages. Send your pics to us at 30nov@pcs.org.uk

 

1038 There has been overwhelming public support for public sector strikes in Glasgow.

It is the best supported strike we have ever had at the Scottish Government at Atlantic Quay with hundreds of passing motorists sounding their horns in support of strikers from PCS, the FDA and Unison.

PCS branch secretary Gordon Thomson said: "The public aren't stupid they know this isn't about money it's about an all out attack on public services. In this building there are 600-700 workers today we have seen one union member going in."
 

1037 Brighton pensions regulator office closed. 90% of members out. Unison and PCS members on picket line of approx 20. Excellent atmosphere, most private company staff in complex took leaflets.

 

1035 Some highlights so far:

• Identity & Passport Service - Durham 95% turnout. Only 30 out of 170 members in work at Belfast – only one person working front desk.
• About 70% members out at Norwich Cabinet Office and best ever turnout at Cabinet Office, London
• Best ever turnout at Home Office London HQ
• RMT reporting total shutdown of North East transport services
• Cardiff bus company on strike causing travel chaos and all museums in Wales are closed
• Good reports from MoD including Ensleigh, Bath - 95% Out. 8 PCS & 4 Unite on picket line.
• Between 80-90% turnout being reported from across DWP

 

1034 From PCS on Twitter - "This is a tax on public sector workers. 3% additional contibutions won't go to pensions schemes but to Treasury."

 

1033 Lots of PCS, GMB, Pensions Justice and Prospect flags and placards outside House of Commons. Everyone speaks of great support from the public. Lots of horns being tooted.

 

1031 Billy McCoy, deputy convenor for the MerseyTunnel branch of the GMB, was at the helm of the strikers gathered in front of the Birkenhead Tunnel which shut at midnight for 24 hours.

Mr McCoy said: “I think that the action being taken by thousands of public sector workers across Liverpool today will bring it home to the government that these cuts are totally unacceptable.

“We are getting fantastic support from the public – most cars that pass are showing their support by honking.

“This is about standing up and making our voice heard.”
 

1030 Some great new images and posts added to the PCS Union Members group on Facebook. Not a member? Join today.

 

1028 Good turn out on the picket line at Home Office Croydon lunar house, Apollo house, and electric.

 

1027 Message of support received from the Federation of Salaried Employees Pardia Finland.

 

1023 69% think we're right to strike on the Sky News Twitter poll. Tweet #RIGHTOSTRIKE now.

 

1023 Department for Business Innovation and Skills in Westminster. Twenty plus strikers outside. Lots of beeps of support from passing cars. Member Martin Rodgers: "There has been less people crossing the picket line this time round. I think the big impact will be when people will see their pay packets at the end of April."

 

1022 PCS striker Nur Alam at Heathrow on BBC News now.

 

1021 PCS rep Steven Mulholland, who works for National Museums Liverpool, said that he has been taken aback by the high levels of public support for the strikers.

Speaking in front of Liverpool’s Walker Art Gallery, in William Brown Street, Mr Mulholland said: “The sound of motorists’ horns honking in support of the strike has been prevalent throughout the morning – this strike is getting the support it deserves.

“Like many more, I’m quite badly paid – my take home pay is around £15,000 a year.

“And this simple fact is this... the cuts being laid out by the government are going to cost me dearly.

“They are additional costs I can’t afford.”

 

1020 The PCS flickr site has images from different workplaces from around the country. Is their a pic of your workplace or local area on the site? Find out now, and if not, please send your strike day images to 30nov@pcs.org.uk.

 

1019 Great support reported at law courts across Sussex. Royal Mail & Couriers refused to crossed picket lines at various locations.

 

1019 From PCS on Twitter - "Ordnance Survey pickets estimate 200+ empty car parking spaces at HQ, and around half of those who did cross the line are contractors/agency"

 

1016 All national museums in Wales are closed as a result of the action.

 

1015 From PCS on Twitter - "LSE very quiet today few students and few staff going in. Lots of pickets. Good union morale. #n30 #ucu"

 

1014 Some highlights so far:

• Strong picket at Arndale House Manchester, comprising of Skills Funding Agency, Young People’s Learning Agency and Equality Human Rights Commission
• National Audit Office, central London, first ever picket
• Battle bus in London reporting good pickets including Houses of Parliament, National Gallery and Imperial War Museum
• Aberdeen Against Austerity having a “BIG Breakfast Event” visiting picket lines throughout the city. CWU and FBU members visiting picket lines in solidarity.
• High turnout being reported across HMRC including 85% in Centenary Court Bradford, 99% in Bootle and Cheltenham enquiry centre closed
• Good reports from DWP - Cardiff & District estimate 95% members out. All offices are open but unworkable. Royal Mail respected picket lines. Police came to offer a solidarity message.
• Skelmersdale Jobcentre, West Lancs 100% turn-out amongst members.

 

1013 From PCS at the British Museum "85% on strike - 17 pickets - only two rooms open - local businesses feeding our pickets."

 

1012 How much do you stand to lose? Try our pensions calculator.

 

1011 Met Police Service member Matt: "Under the government's proposals an average member will lose £61 a month, work seven year longer and lose £24,400 through index linking changes".

 

1010 Strong picket at Arndale House Manchester, comprising of Skills Funding Agency, Young People’s Learning Agency and Equality Human Rights Commission.

 

1007 Don't forget to attend a strike day event - here's a list.

 

1006 We now have 6,000 followers on Twitter! Get the latest by following us today.

 

1004 Brighton DVLA closed, with all members out. There's a lively joint picket with Unison, and members will move off to join the Brighton march shortly.

 

1004 What's happening where you are? Text us at 07624 806 232.

 

1002 Richard Rooney, president of Met Police Support members with a big crowd of strikers at New Scotland Yard: "I've been to four different sites and I can tell you the strike is holding up great.

I have also seen many workers turn back and not cross the picket line. We have won the economic argument and now we're winning the moral one too."

 

1000 We currently have 2945 members on the PCS Union Members group on Facebook. Not a member? Join today.

 

0958 PCS president Janice Godrich has been picketing Selly Oak JobCentre in Birmingham where she started work 30 years ago. She will speak at the big rally in the National Indoor Arena later.

 

0958 PCS member? Sign up to get the latest direct to your email or phone.

 

0957 From the Information Commissioner's Office in Wilmslow - "Extremely strong day, only 5 members gone in out of 215. 12 on the picket including 2 from FDA. Helpline closed for the day."

 

0955 Good feedback from the Ministry of Justice Sussex "good amounts out, strong picket lines with staff and postal workers refusing to cross."

 

0953 The PCS flickr site has images from different workplaces from around the country. Is their a pic of your workplace or local area on the site? Find out now, and if not, please send your strike day images to 30nov@pcs.org.uk.

 

0951 From Basingstoke county court "70% out! Overwhelming support from public passing in cars."

 

0950 There is an alternative. Share our leaflet with friends, family and colleagues.

 

0949 Very strong joint PCS and Prospect picket at national portrait gallery.

 

0948 We're 5 short of 6,000 followers on Twitter. Follow us today

 

0946 Good numbers at North Gate House, Reading. Members from Natural England and Rural Payments Agency out in force. Joined by Santa.

 

0945 From the British Library - "Good turnout of PCS and Prospect members on picket line (20 approx) not many at work."

 

0942 From Ministry of Defence in Ensleigh "95% out, joint PCS and Unite picket, brilliant day! Rally to follow."

 

0941 Good turnout by Unison members outside Westminster City Hall. Three generations involved: grandma Mary, daughter Kim and 5-yr-old Josh. Mary said, "The pension changes won't affect me but they will hit Josh hard when he's older... But he's happy today, running around blowing a green Unison whistle."

 

0940 From PCS on Twitter - @pcs_union picket at Leeds, highways, dclg, jaw members on picket - good support from public

 

0937 From DWP Cardiff and District - "Estimate 95% members out 85% out in total. All offices are open but unworkable. Fantastic support from public and customers. Royal Mail respected picket lines. Police came to offer a solidarity message."

 

0935 News from Home Office HQ in London "10 on the picket line, Prospect, FDA and PCS standing side by side. Massively reduced attendance at work."

 

0935 Some highlights so far:

• Crown Prosecution Service at Manchester report 98% turnout - 15 on picket including 6 FDA.
• Swansea Pension Centre 90% of 645 are out. Sian James MP due to visit picket.
• Imran Khan – solicitor representing Stephen Lawrence's family – sends message of support
• As a gesture of support for their PCS colleagues the Government Communications Group will be collecting money for the PCS hardship fund
• Criminal Records Bureau has been unofficially shut down, fantastic support for the strike. No calls being answered, no work being done.
• Wales Government Senedd closed - no business happening today
• Pickets out in force at MoD Faslane, Coulport, Greenock, Beith and Glasgow. Solid support 90% members on strike. 20 new members joined in last few days.
• MoJ reporting even better support than 30 June. Middlesborough Crown Court Severely Disrupted as is Magistrates' - only remand court sitting. North Shields Magistrates' Court - only 1 remand court sitting no admin staff or ushers.
   

 

0933 We've got our first N30 video on the PCS Flickr page. Watch 'A song of solidarity from two generations!' at PCS Flickr.

 

0931 Message of support received from Mary Glindon, MP: "Please pass on my support to the public sector workers who are taking part in today’s largest co-ordinated day of industrial action.

This Government is unjustly targeting the wages and pensions of public sector workers.

I know it would not have been an easy decision for the millions of workers to strike today but I support you in your stand for injustice.

Please be assured I will continue to do what I can to fight this disgracefully unfair treatment to public sector workers, who this Tory-led Government seems to hold in total contempt."
 

0930 The Welsh Assembly was closed to the public today as PCS and FDA members picketed.

Plaid Cymru and Labour politicians refused to cross the picket line.

Craig Stephenson of the FDA said: "This is the first time since the 80s that we've had a strike. It's such a serious issue we're striking because we would like Westminster government to get back round the table and agree a settlememnt in partnership.

Steve George PCS joint chair of the union committee at the national assembly Wales said: "Some say politics is all about choices but the choices being made by the government are all against the working people."

 

0929 From PCS on Twitter "@pcs_union all over BBC news 24 :) flags flying so keep up the good work"

 

0927Two pickets and 80% out reported from Defra HQ.

 

0926 Some great photos added to the PCS 30 Nov flickr pages. Send your pics to us at 30nov@pcs.org.uk

 

0924 Approx 50 per cent out and 34 pickets at the Ministry of Defence in Salisbury.

 

0924 Speaking in front of Liverpool’s iconic Royal Liver Building, PCS member Stephen Edwards – who works at the Crown Prosecution Service – said: “Our members were gathering here from the crack of dawn.

“Both my partner and I work in the public sector and we’ve calculated that if these cuts go ahead, then they’ll cost us more than £1,700 a year.

“This is simply unacceptable – particularly when you’ve got a family like we have - and that’s why we are doing what we are doing today.

“There are around 120 members of the PCS working for the Crown Prosecution Service in Liverpool – and 98% of them are staying away from work today to protest.”
 

0923 Thank you to all of you who have texted us your strike stories or emailed us your support and images. If you haven't already done so, please text (07624 806 232) or email us (30nov@pcs.org.uk) and let us know what's happening.

 

0923 PCS outside the Cabinet Office on BBC One news now.

 

0921 From the Passport Office in Belfast. "Only 30 people in office out of 170 workers. Only one person working the front desk. The mood is upbeat and the action is well supported. Car drivers tooting their horn in support and a Police landrover also sounded its siren to back the action. "

 

0918 Mark Serwotka at IPS in Central London.

"I have been to pickets around central London and spirits are sky high with many other unions besides PCS out on strike. I hope that anyone reading this blog will go from the picket line to their local march or rally so TV stations will be covered with pictures of thousands of us making our point.

People should be very proud of the stand they are making today in contrast to the shame of the government."

 

0917 From PCS on Twitter "I'm told there'll be disability benefits claimants joining PCS picket at Euston Tower at around 9:30am #nov30 #N30 "

 

0916 From Hendon police college "70% out, 12 pickets on gates, lots of toots from cars and a good response from working police officers."

 

0915 Good turnout at Royal Berkshire Hospital, joint Unison and GMB picket lines front and back.

 

0914 From East Lancashire Revenue and Customs "2 enquiry centres closed. 95% out in Blackburn. Mail undelivered."

 

0913 From Home Office Criminal Records Bureau branch - "CRB have been unofficially shut down, fantastic support for the strike. No calls being answered, no work being done. Senior managers acting as bouncers in the doorway - that's money well spent."

 

0912 From DWP North East and Mid Wales branch "98% out, with 20 on picket line. Sun is out, spirits high." Great stuff.

 

0912 From PCS on Twitter "Largest picket ever at Wigan JobCentre. Had visits from BBC, Manchester Evening News and local press. "Money's too tight for pensions" placard went down a treat. Solidarity!"

 

0910 There are 7 pickets outside the Cabinet office in Whitehall, with PCS Reps interviewed by BBC outside Downing Street.

 

0908 Not a member? See how much you will lose on your pension with the PCS pensions calculator and then join today.

 

0906 Some highlights so far:

• Home Office Manchester Branch reports Manchester Airport Terminal 3 closed – finance staff & managers staffing the border control there
• MoD Abbeywood estimate 75% turnout with 40 pickets from all unions and MoD Cosford say 60+ on picket line inc PCS & Prospect members
• Strong pickets at all London HQ buildings with FDA support
• Felixstowe UK Border Agency Anglia branch - 90% on strike
• Identity & Passport Service London estimate likely to process 50 passports today compared with usual 1,000. 17 passport interviews rather than normal 200.
• “I will lose £104 a month, work 7 years longer and lose £130,000 in total” says one PCS rep

 

0905 The PCS battle bus has just stopped at St Thomas' hospital where there is a large Unite and Unison picket.

 

0903 For new visitors to the site, thanks for visiting. Have you signed up for our campaigns newsletter? If not, sign up today.

 

0902 From the Crown Prosecution Service branch in Sunlight house,Manchester "98% members of strike with joint support from the FDA".

 

0900 We've had hundreds of new members to the PCS Facebook group in the last few weeks. If you're not already a member, join today.

 

0858 Some great photos added to the PCS 30 Nov flickr pages. Send your pics to us at 30nov@pcs.org.uk

 

0857 From PCS on Twitter, a message from Leanne Wood Plaid Cymru Welsh assembly member and PCS Welsh assembly chair "On the picket line with #unison workers outside Ysbyty Cwm #Rhondda. Superb support from passing traffic. #plaidcymru #n30 #strike #nov30"

 

0855 From Identity and Passport Support in Victoria rep Jon Bigger: "Great success so far and we reckon the work output has been reduced to less than 10 per cent. We would normally do up to 1,000 passports a day but they will be lucky to do 50 today.

Likewise we would normally interview 200 people for passports but today it is down to 17. I will lose £104 a month, work seven years longer and lose £130,000 in total...there's been no need to dish out too many leaflets about today because people have been saying you'd be crazy not to go on strike."

 

0853 From PCS Mod Abbey Wood branch "20 pcs pickets 40 from all unions. Good support for the strike estimate 1200 pcs members out = 75% of members. Huge disruptions for contractors."

 

0852 PCS striker Nur Alam on Sky News - "We're fighting to stay above the official poverty line... our pensions are just £4 a week above the poverty line"
 
"We provide a public service, if 700,000 of us loose our jobs the service just won be there"

 

0852 95% out at Kidderminster Redditch and Hereford Magistrates courts. Joint picketting takin place with Unison in Hereford.
 

0849 From PCS on Twitter "PCS members report UKBA in crisis at Manchester Airport - Terminal 3 closed, finance managers and staff brought in to cover controls."

 

0847 At Swansea Pension Centre 90% of staff are out.

Labour MP Shan James is due to visit the picket line this morning too.

 

0845 Good images on the 'I'm striking on N30 because...' Facebook page. If you're not already a member, join the group today.

 

0844 PCS striker Nur Alam on Sky News now.

 

0843 From HMP Guys Marsh branch, members out from PCS and Unite, with support from the POA.

 

0842 From Met Police palace of westminster, a 95% turnout and a good picket with other unions.

 

0840 Strike causing huge disruption in Cardiff with major traffic problems reported.

 

0840 Message of solidarity received from the Supreme administration of Greek civil servants trade union

"The struggle of the workers  in each country, the joint and coordinated struggle in all countries are the only hope for the overthrow of unpopular policies, for overcoming the crisis in the interest of the workers and the peoples."

 

0838 Some highlights so far:

• Strike dominating TV and radio news coverage
• No customer appointments for personal callers across whole of Land Registry
• 90% turnout at Dundee HMRC
• The School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS) Labour Society overwhelmingly voted to back today's day of action
• Met Police East London branch - Bow Metcall 80% of staff not reported for 0700 start. Police officers covering civilian jobs broadly supportive of action
• No Met Office weather on Radio 4 this morning
• Reports of schools closing and day time classes cancelled at South Downs College, Havant, Hampshire

0837 Branch secretary of the North West office of PCS, Martin Kelsey, estimated that more than 95% of the Home Office’s 2,000 employees working in central Liverpool were on strike.

Speaking in front of the Home Office's building, Mr Kelsey said: “I think that everyone recognises that we would rather not be here today and be facing what we are facing.

“But if we give ground now then it has become clear that we will simply be walked all over.

“By 8am this morning, only 20 to 30 Home Office employees out of a total of 2,000 had walked through the office doors – which shows the immense level of support we have.

“Virtually everyone believes that this is something we can win.
 

0835 An estimated 95% on strike at the IPS office in Durham. A reduced service as a result, with joint leafletting with other unions to follow afterwards. Great public support received there too.

0825 From Customs House HRMC today in Belfast "I'm with PCS members today in Belfast .The mood is good and the determination is high. The weather is cold, but thankfully it's not raining!"

 

0824 Pickets gathered at Northgate, Glasgow, offices of the DWP and passport service at 7. 45am.

Out of a total workforce of almost 1,500 only 33 have so far gone into work. Pickets were chanting and blowing whistles as cars tooted their support.

David Copeland, PCS member, said: "Anger has been building up all week. Osborne's statement yesterday is the final nail in the coffin."

 

0823 From Debbie Morris, a teacher from Streatham, "Good luck to everyone today. Giving up a day's pay is a small price to pay for the day's pay you will lose every month thanks to the government's disgusting pensions robbery. Respect to all the strikers." 

0822 Message of support received from Lawrence family solicitor Imran Khan. "I am, and always have been, committed to public services whether in the legal profession or elsewhere. In terms of the legal profession I have seen first-hand how cuts affect those that are most vulnerable in society.

Whilst I cannot join those protesting tomorrow I shall do whatever I can to ensure public services are protected and enhanced. I wish all those involved in the action well. I am sure the day will be a huge success."

 

0820 80% out estimated at Peterborough DWP branch.

 

0818 An estimated 80% of staff not reported for 0700 start at Met Police East London Branch.

 

0816 What's happening where you are? Text us at 07624 806 232.

 

0814 Torpoint ferry closed, as is the Mersey Tunnel and all public transport in Northern Ireland.

 

0810 PCS member Dave Griffiths, 29, arrived on the picket line at Liverpool Passport Office, Old Hall Street, at 6.30am. With the sound of whistles plainly audible from another picket lines taking place elsewhere, Dave said: "This is about standing up and being counted.
"Enough is enough. We can't allow these cuts - which are going to cost us 16.5% in real terms - to happen."

 

0806 Cosford branch, West Midlands, 60 plus on the picket line, PCS, Prospect and NASUWT members there.

 

0805 Message of support received: "On behalf of the FGF-FO representing the State civil servants in France, we would like to bring you our full support for the strike."

0758 There are a dozen strikers at Euston Tower, London. Been there since 7am. In great spirits. Lots of beeps on the horn.
Banner displaying, " Staff at Revenue and Customs will lose £156, 731, 324". Rep Anna Owens said: "We hope today will leave people thinking they can win against this government, intent on cutting public services." Coffee has been delivered