Security staff at the Houses of Parliament will begin strike action on Wednesday morning in a dispute over pay and working conditions. The 24-hour walkout starts at 7am and involves hundreds of Public and Commercial Services union (PCS) members.
A second 24-hour strike is planned for 10th September, with additional industrial action including an overtime ban running until 12th September. The timing coincides with Parliament's return from summer recess.
Union calls for fair treatment
PCS general secretary Fran Heathcote said the action was necessary to secure better conditions for dedicated staff. "To fight for fair pay and conditions, our dedicated members at the Palace of Westminster will take industrial action this week just as parliament returns from recess," she said.
She highlighted the essential nature of their work protecting the parliamentary estate. "Day and night, they work incredibly hard to ensure the safety of MPs, Lords, staff and visitors in the UK's national parliament building."
Workers demand workplace improvements
Heathcote emphasised that the security staff deserve recognition for their commitment to parliamentary safety. "They deserve to be treated fairly and to have their many concerns addressed by the employer," she added.
The strike action will affect security operations across the Palace of Westminster during a crucial period as parliamentarians return to work.
Sources used: "PA Media" Note: This article has been edited with the help of Artificial Intelligence.
