By Labour to force emergency vote on workers’ rights after P&O mass sacking
Later today Labour will force an emergency vote on workers’ rights after P&O fired 800 members of staff without notice.
The party said reports suggest the government was aware of the sackings before they were announced, as well as the plan to use “exploitative” practices to take on cheaper employees.
Last Thursday, 800 members of staff were sacked without notice via a video message, prompting widespread anger and protests from workers.
The Rail, Maritime, and Transport union has claimed replacement crews are being paid less than minimum wage.
Labour will call on the government to suspend contracts with P&O owners DP World until the matter is resolved and to remove it from its Transport Advisory Group.
Shadow minister Louise Haigh called the “scandalous action” a “betrayal of the workers that kept this country stocked throughout the pandemic.”
The Department for Transport said: “Ministers and officials have expressed their outrage and frustration at P&O Ferries on their decision and handling of their announcement, and are closely considering the department’s relationship with the company.
“The Transport Secretary has instructed a total examination of any contract in place with P&O Ferries and DP World across Government, and the department is working closely with unions, the Department for Work and Pensions, and industry bodies to ensure that workers are supported and signposted to the most relevant support.
“We have serious concerns that their handling may not have followed the correct and legal processes, and strongly urge P&O Ferries to pause the changes announced, and speak with workers to repair the damage caused.”
Updates to follow.
