Strong support for Parliamentary security staff strike
PCS NEC members, MPs and trade unions were out in force today to support hundreds of PCS members employed as security staff at the Houses of Parliament who walked out for 24 hours, in their dispute over pay, terms and conditions.
More than 300 members are taking action in two blocks, 3-4 September (7am-7pm) and again on 10-11 September (7am-7pm) as well as taking action short of strike, including working to rule and an overtime ban, between 1-12 September.
Despite the miserable weather in central London, dozens of MPs including Diane Abbott, Liz Saville-Roberts, Andy McDonald, Mary Glindon and PCS Parliamentary Group Chair John McDonnell attended picket lines. They spoke with members and confirmed their support for staff who work tirelessly to ensure MPs, their staff and visitors are safe across the parliamentary estate.
John McDonnell raised the dispute in the House of Commons chamber via a point of order where he commended the work of our members and urged their employer to get back round the table: “Can I use this mechanism to urge the senior management of the House to seek another meeting with the union, to clarify the situation, and to come up with a reasonable offer that will resolve this dispute? Because I do not wish to see our dedicated staff outside of work, on this basis, because they provide us with the security we need.”
Support for the strike was also provided by sister union Unite and members of the PCS NEC who extended their solidarity in person and at their two-day hybrid meeting which has taken place this week (2-3). The TUC and other supportive organisations have suspended or rescheduled meetings in parliament to respect pickets and support our members’ demands.
To support our members, donate to the PCS Strike Fund.