Biffa drivers threaten strike action

Strike action among Biffa drivers in Winchester could be on the cards in a dispute over the installation of CCTV in lorry cabs.

The GMB union claimed that the move to implement the cameras breached GDPR and it was consulting its members over possible industrial action.

It said it had concerns over the health and safety implications of the constant surveillance of lorry drivers.

Nicola Nixon, GMB Regional Organiser said the company was now refusing to talk to the union: “I would say that it’s because they can’t answer our questions.

“If [the cameras] were outward facing I would think that it was for health and safety reasons, but the CCTV cameras are just looking at the crew and to me, they’re there for one reason – and it’s not on the grounds of health and safety.

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“Members are not happy with it.”

She added: “I should have a mandate early next week for industrial action. Early indications are that it would be supported.”

Both Biffa and Winchester City Council were approached for comment but neither responded.