Ryanair moves to recognise pilot unions

Ryanair has said it is prepared to recognise pilot unions as it seeks to avoid strike disruption over the Christmas period.

Earlier this week, 79 Dublin-based Ryanair pilots had said they would strike for one day on 20 December.

The airline was also facing action by pilots in Italy, Germany and Portugal.

Peter Bellew, the airline's chief operating officer, told the Today programme it was "time for change".