Further Goodrich strike over pensions possible

The main union representing hundreds of West Midlands aerospace workers has refused to rule out further industrial action in a dispute over pensions.

Around 1,100 workers at Goodrich Engine Control Systems plants across the region yesterday joined colleagues around the country in a 24-hour strike.

Members of the Unite union at sites in Birmingham, Wolverhampton, Liverpool and Hemel Hempstead walked out in protest at the firm's decision to close its final salary pension scheme to new entrants.

Unite said it was very pleased with the response to the 24 hours of industrial action, which, it was claimed, attracted 100 per cent support from the Goodrich workers even though the vote in favour of strike action was 2-1.

Unite regional officer Andy Taylor said: "There was full support for the strike action and no one crossed the picket line so we believe production was halted.

"The company needs to heed the message that has been sent out and begin negotiations, otherwise further action could follow."

The union said it was prepared to stage a second 24-hour stoppage in a fortnight's time unless the company agreed to talks.

Staff at the company, which was Lucas Aerospace until it was bought by the US Goodrich Corporation in 2002, fear that changes to their pension scheme - which will see all members paying an extra 3.5 per cent each month - will leave them worse off when they retire.

Goodrich spokesman Martin Butler said the changes were due to volatile interest rates.

He insisted the firm was committed to keeping its final salary pension scheme to existing employers.

"Goodrich believes the pension arrangements it offers its employees are highly competitive and it is therefore disappointed with the union's decision to take industrial action.

"The company hopes the situation can be resolved as soon as possible and continues to talk with union officials," he said.

The company supplies fuel system control equipment for all the major aero engine manufacturers, including Rolls-Royce, and aircraft flight control equipment from its European sites.