PCS union head warns airport strikes may last for several months

As per reports by the PCS union, if the government does not work on workers' pay negotiations, the border force workers' protests at UK airports might last for several months. According to Mark Serwotka, General Secretary of the Public and Commercial Services union, it has a "mandate" for walkouts through May.

UK PM Rishi Sunak's opinion

UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak expressed his sadness over the interruption caused by strikes. However, he also emphasized that public sector wages had been handled properly.

Major traffic congestions

The government warned thousands of travellers to the UK to expect delays at the airport due to the border force strikes. But up until today, there have been a few minor delays. According to accounts, Christmas caused major traffic backups on the roadways in a few locations. Additionally, there are significant traffic jams on the rail lines, which, according to sources, will start up again on Saturday. There have been reports of road closures caused by accidents on the M1 and flooding-related partial closures of the M25.

Who is on strike?

There are 1,000 border force employees on strike from December 23–26 and December 28–31. Also, strikes are occurring at Gatwick, Heathrow, Birmingham, Glasgow, Cardiff, Manchester airports, and the Port of Newhaven. Military and government personnel have been asked to protect the people.

FAQs:

1. Are the airports not operating?
   According to a Heathrow airport employee, the airports are operating smoothly and normally with no major issues during the strikes.
2. Are there any bonuses or raises for the border force employees who are on strike?
   After being had to cancel their Christmas celebrations, all the Border Force employees protesting will get a bonus of £20 per day.