Overwhelming support for further strike action at Palace of Westminster

PCS members employed as security staff at the Palace of Westminster (Houses of Parliament) have been balloted to ask if they are willing to take strike action in their dispute over the loss of annual leave, changes to rotas and break patterns, the stagnation of pay and a widening ethnicity pay gap.

The members have already taken strike action - in September, November and December 2025 - alongside action short of a strike consisting of an overtime ban and work to rule. The ballot that closed at noon on Thursday 12 noon was a re-ballot to extend the strike mandate.

Of those who voted, 98% voted YES for industrial action and 99% for action short of a strike

PCS will continue meeting with the employer in an attempt to end the dispute, and the willingness of members to take further strike action will strengthen our position in those negotiations.

A PCS full time official said: “These exceptional results show just how powerfully members feel about the key issues at the heart of our dispute with the palace security department. Your unity, determination, and solidarity have spoken louder than ever.

“This outcome significantly strengthens our negotiating position and we will continue to push for a fair, mutually agreeable resolution to the dispute, one that reflects the commitment and professionalism you demonstrate every day.”