Hundreds to strike over pay at tractor factory

Union Unite claims the company is "short-changing its workers", while CNH Industrial says it is "keen to resolve the situation"

More than 500 workers at a tractor factory have announced they are going on strike in a dispute over pay.

Members of the union Unite plan to stage nine one-day walkouts at the CNH Industrial tractor factory in Basildon, Essex, from 14 May.

Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said the company was "trying to rake in even more profits by short-changing its workers".

A CNH spokesperson said it was "committed to reaching an agreement and we are keen to work with the union to resolve this situation".

The union has accused the company of offering a 4% pay rise for 2024, rather than the 7.4% it believes should have been available under a previous agreement.

Ms Graham said: "The pay deal with CNH was agreed in good faith and the company's extremely healthy finances show that there is absolutely no reason whatsoever for it not to be adhered to."

The shop floor workers' strikes will take place until 30 May and more will be scheduled if the dispute is not resolved.

The CNH spokesperson said the company was "disappointed" about the decision, but it did not foresee any disruption to its tractor supply.

"We will continue to negotiate in good faith and trust that the union will do the same," the spokesperson added.

CNH Industrial's Basildon plant marked its 60th anniversary in April and it is where it produces the New Holland tractor brand.