BP disappointed over strike action

BP says it is "disappointed" that the Unite union's tanker driver members have voted in favour of industrial action over safety, training and terms and conditions.

The company says that it, along with other fuel distribution companies, has been working with Unite since 2010 to discuss the union’s proposal to form an industry wide bargaining forum.

A spokesman for BP says: "Despite the fact that joint working groups have been established and discussions are still on-going, Unite has decided to go ahead with this vote on industrial action.

"BP’s top priority remains continuing the safe supply of fuel to our customers and forecourts."

More than 61.1% of tanker drivers voting across the seven companies involved voted for strike action.

Results for the firms involved in the ballot were:

- Turners, 94.4% in favour on a turnout of 81.8%

- Norbert Dentressangle, 74.8% in favour on a turnout of 71.3%

- Wincanton, 68.4% in favour on a turnout of 71.9%

- BP, 60.2% in favour on a turnout of 85.8%

- Hoyer, 59.7% in favour on a turnout of 79.7%

- at DHL and Suckling Transport drivers voted against strike action.

Unite is unlikely to name any strike dates until it has held meetings with local union representatives this week.