Strikes to hit airports and ports over Christmas

Major ports and airports are set to be disrupted by strikes over the Christmas period.

The PCS union members in the Border Force are due to take action as part of a dispute over pay, jobs and pensions.

Driving tests and payments to farmers could also be disrupted as civil servants from different government departments strike.

The Cabinet Office said it had plans in place to keep essential services running.

The action will start in mid-December and continue for a month, with some workers out for the entire month.

PCS general secretary Mark Serwotka said the action will affect passport control at airports and ports.

Border Force also carries out immigration and customs controls.

Mr Serwotka said: "PCS members are angry. They helped to keep this country running during the pandemic, and in return, have been treated appallingly by this government.

"With inflation now at 11.1%, it is inconceivable that they are expected to cope with yet another real terms pay cut."

However, the Cabinet Office said: "We greatly value the work of civil servants across the country, but the PCS Union's demands would cost an unaffordable £2.4bn at a time when our focus must be on bringing down inflation to ease the pressure on households across the country, protect the vulnerable and rebuild our economy."

A spokesperson added: "Discussions will continue, but we can provide reassurance that we have comprehensive plans in place to keep essential services running and to minimise disruption if these PCS strikes do go ahead."