North Sea oil workers stage 24-hour strike

The dispute centres around three Total-operated platforms, including Elgin-Franklin

A 24-hour strike is taking place on a number of North Sea oil platforms in a row over rota changes.

Talks between the Unite union and Aker and Petrofac broke down on Monday without agreement.

A series of strikes was earlier announced after more than 200 oil workers voted for industrial action.

The 24-hour strike involving the union's members is taking place on the Elgin-Franklin, North Alwyn and Dunbar platforms.

Total, which operates the platforms, said: "We have carried out a full risk assessment to ensure our platforms remain a safe working environment for those who remain at their posts. Production from our platforms will continue."

The Unite union claims a move to a three weeks on, three weeks off rota pattern is a danger to health.

Aker said it was hopeful the situation could be brought to a conclusion in due course.