Baggage handlers at Stansted Airport in the United Kingdom are to strike over the Easter period in a row over pay, the GMB general trade union annou-nced yesterday.

The move follows an overwhelming vote in favour of industrial action by 150 GMB union members employed by Swissport after the union claimed that shift changes would lead to wage cuts of up to £1,000.

The GMB trade union said strikes will be held on Good Friday, Easter Saturday and Easter Monday, threatening disruption to passengers flying on holiday for the holiday break.

GMB trade union official Gary Pearce said: “GMB members have voted overwhelmingly for strike action and for action short of a strike. Up to now the company has been intent on imposing these changes without agreement and this is completely unacceptable, as this vote shows. The GMB trade union has offered several alternative shift patterns and working arrangements but the company refuses to listen so far.

“I have notified Swissport of the ballot result and I have asked them for more talks to try to avert action over these pay cuts. GMB members consider that Swissport is attempting to make savings at their expense and they are not willing to agree to this. Unless there is urgent talks and a settlement, this vote for action this will result in disruption over the Easter Bank Holiday weekend.

“The travelling public need to be aware that it has been this aggressive move by Swissport to cut our members pay at a time of high inflation that has led to this strike vote. If the strike goes ahead, Swissport is entirely to blame for the disruption.”

A Swissport spokesman said: “At this time we can confirm the airport will be open as normal. Passengers should travel to the airport as normal and we expect no disruption to our services.

“The decision to call industrial action comes at the end of a 90- day consultation period with employees and trade unions, relating to the change of working patterns.