01.06.1995

Bankworkers shut down Barclays

Despite record profits Barclays wants to impose another round of pay cuts for bankworkers

BARCLAYS STAFF went on strike for the first time ever on May 30 for better basic pay. Although most strikers stayed at home away from picket lines, Bifu, the main banking trade union, reported that about half the bank’s 2,000 outlets were affected. Unifi, Barclay’s in-house union, claimed some 400 branches were closed completely. Support came from all around the country, but was especially enthusiastic in areas like Liverpool and South Wales, which have a tradition of trade union organisation.

Unifi and Bifu both have mandates to call one-day stoppages until management comes to the negotiating table. Both unions are meeting next week and are committed to co-ordinating future action. At present management is not responding, but it has had to withdraw its threat to sack anyone who joined the strike. Membership of the two unions has been rocketing, as staff card up to join the action.

Bank staff are furious that at a time of record profits and generous pay awards to top management ordinary workers are being offered a below inflation pay rise for the fourth year in a row. In addition workers are threatened with redundancy and job speed-ups. White collar workers are now facing the levels of exploitation and job insecurity previously only felt by manual workers. Staff in other banks have similar experiences and are keeping a close eye on what is happening in Barclays.

Phil Kent