UK Border Force officials have planned another walk-out on 15th March 2023 as part of an industrial action called by the Public and Commercial Services (PCS) union to coincide with the announcement of the Spring Budget 2023 by the Chancellor on that day.
The head of the PCS union previously warned in December that travellers should get used to UK border strikes as the UK government continues to reject their demands.
The walkout is set to involve over 100,000 civil service workers, including Border Force staff at ports and airports and could impact more than 2,000 flights, which will cause significant delays for both traders and travellers. This is following a series of strikes which took place in February on the French side suspending all ship movements for a full day and creating a backlog for shipments entering the UK via Calais to Dover.
On top of this, a number of other unions have also declared strikes in the next month or so as follows:
The Rail, Maritime and Transport Union (RMT) announced four days of strikes in March and April. More information on the dates and services affected here.
The Communication Workers Union (CWU) have voted in favour of more Royal Mail strikes taking place but dates are yet to be confirmed. Details will be announced here.
Heathrow Airport staff are also currently balloting for potential strikes to take place over the Easter weekend in April with the ballot set to close on 17th March.
If you would like to speak to a member of the international trade team, please contact exportbritain@gmchamber.co.uk