Sandwell refuse workers suspend industrial action after talks

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Striking workersImage source, GMB
Image caption,

The workers were planning to walk out on 12 dates in November, December and January

Refuse workers have suspended a strike set to take place in Sandwell, in the West Midlands.

The Serco staff walked out in a dispute about health and safety conditions at a household recycling centre in Oldbury.

Monday's strike by GMB union members was the first of 12 dates of industrial action scheduled to take place.

Following "last ditch talks" with the operator, members voted to suspend the action with immediate effect as a gesture of good faith, said the union.

More than 100 workers had taken part in Monday's action, the union said.

Serco had urged staff to consider suspending action planned for Tuesday while discussions were ongoing.

Image source, GMB
Image caption,

Further talks will now take place with the company, the union said

GMB organiser Justine Jones said the union would suspend the action with immediate effect.

"We will now enter into further talks with the company," she added.

"However GMB members stand ready to strike across Christmas and New Year if the talks break down."

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