Nuclear sub staff at Faslane considering strike action over plans for £250m cut to vital safety contracts

Nuclear submarine staff at Faslane are considering strike action in response to plans to slash £250 million from crucial safety contracts. Workers at Serco Maritime in Faslane, near Helensburgh, Dunbartonshire, are being balloted by the Prospect union due to proposed cost-saving measures in a new contract between the firm and the Ministry of Defence (MoD).

These staff members play a vital role in supporting Royal Navy nuclear submarines and warships as they enter and exit the base safely. The MoD’s decision to reduce the contract price has put pressure on Serco Maritime to potentially scale back services and even consider staff cuts. With Serco being the sole bidder for the contract, the MoD’s lack of competition allows them to dictate the price.

Workers express concerns that the proposed measures would jeopardise the safety of their work and claim that they have not been properly consulted on the changes. They argue that fulfilling the MoD’s requirements with such a significant cost reduction would be impossible. In addition to assisting with vessel support and refuelling, these staff members handle various tasks crucial for naval operations across major ports.

The potential strike action at Faslane echoes similar sentiments from workers at naval bases in Devonport and Portsmouth in England facing comparable challenges. Sue Ferns, Senior Deputy General Secretary of Prospect union, emphasised the importance of engaging workers in contract discussions to ensure proper support for the fleet. She criticised the government for prioritising cost over the complexity of the contract and its wider implications.

Responding to the situation, a Serco spokesman stressed their commitment to collaborating with the MoD while prioritising staff welfare and safety. The MoD reiterated its dedication to delivering value for taxpayers amidst the ongoing dispute.

The looming strike action highlights the critical role these workers play in maintaining the country’s naval defence capabilities and underscores the need for transparent and inclusive decision-making processes in government contracts.

In summary, the potential strike action by nuclear submarine staff at Faslane due to proposed cuts in safety contracts reflects broader concerns about prioritising cost over essential services. The workers’ vital role in ensuring naval defence readiness underscores the significance of fair and consultative decision-making processes in government contracts to uphold national security standards.