Lightning strikes

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•Never before in the history of Reckitt and Coleman, Hull, have they had industrial action from the craftsmen of the scope prevailing now.

Lightning one and two day strikes, an overtime ban and the blacking of all machines that break down on overtime are the result of frustrated pay negotiations.

The craftsmen's attempts to gain better differentials have been thwarted by management mainly due to the fact that another union (TGWU). have settled their claim.

We are not interested in other union's settlements and have attémpted time and again to establish the crafts as a separate body.

But management will not allow this, arguing that other unions will seek a further increase if we are successful in our claim for a larger percentage rise.

This is not free collective bargaining. Management are using other unions as a lever to restrain our claim, which we consider justified.

The solidarity shown by the craftsmen has been overwhelming and there are no signs of this declining since the unofficial action began six weeks ago.

The men are adamant on their insistence that a better settlement must be forthcoming if they are to receive proper rewards for their skills.

A 20% drop in profits due. to outside influences has also led management to tell us that this is not the time for a large percentage increase.

When, may we ask, is the time? Is there ever a right time in management's view? Will any management actually advertise the view that "you may strike indefinitely now since we have made a huge profit"?

BM, shop steward Reckitt and Coleman A TGWU member from Reckitts comments:

The craftsmen say the TGWU have settled and because of this settlement it is more difficult for them.

With the hopeless leadership of TGWU convenor Terry Bradshaw there is certainly friction arising between the two unions.

But this friction is what management want. They want us to fight amongst ourselves instead of against them!