Monday 19 December 2016 1:15 pm

We’ve got cereal strikes going on: Now Weetabix workers vote for walkouts

Another day, another proposed batch of industrial action.

This time, it's Weetabix workers apparently. Usdaw union has said workers at the cereal company are planning to go on strike in the new year after voting for action in a row over the firm's proposal to change shift patterns.

Ed Leach, Usdaw's area organiser, said: “Despite long and detailed discussions, the company has so far refused to offer a suitable financial incentives for employees who have moved shift or will be expected to move onto the new 24/7 shift pattern."

“It is deeply regrettable that the company has pushed staff to this point and we hope that they will look again at their offer, continue to negotiate with us and seek a solution that will avoid the industrial action backed by our members," he added.

Of 243 members, over 90 per cent voted for action on a turnout of just under 70 per cent.

The action, which will be a series of 24-hour strikes, will affect Weetabix workplaces in Corby and Kettering. The union said no more than one strike will take place in a single week.

A spokesperson from Weetabix said: “We are disappointed by the ballot result, but respect the decision and are keen to continue discussions. We have plans in place to minimise any potential disruption to our operations."

It marks the latest in a flurry of proposed industrial action around the festive period, with Southern rail, the Post Office and airports among those companies affected.

Cabin crew at British Airways have also announced plans to strike on Christmas Day and Boxing Day, though talks are taking place today at conciliation service Acas, while BA said it intends to run a full service regardless.

The airline has worked up contingency plans over the weekend, according to chief executive Alex Cruz, who said BA will ensure "we are able to operate our normal flight programme".