Security guards in Parliament could strike in row over working conditions

Some 240-plus members of staff will vote on whether to take industrial action after having their breaks cut and their workloads increased, according to the PCS union.

There is also a row over a former member of the team who colleagues feel was wrongly dismissed and who they want reinstated.

If the security guards vote in favour of a strike it could see the first day of industrial action take place on 20 March, potentially throwing Parliament into chaos.

PCS general secretary Mark Serwotka said: “The Palace of Westminster needs to pay serious attention to the demands of a key part of the parliamentary workforce.

“Hardworking staff are only asking for what is fair and just. They are not prepared to put up with a culture of fear.

“We urge management to meet with our representatives as a matter of urgency and settle this dispute.”

The union also demanded an end to what it called the “culture of fear” which it argued had been created by “over-zealous” management.

A spokesperson from Parliament told PoliticsHome: “Parliamentary staff are essential to the functioning of democracy and we are keen to engage constructively with security staff and unions to resolve any issues.

"The security of the Estate and normal functioning of Parliamentary business will be maintained at all times.”

The ballot will open on 13 February and close on 1 March.

Green MP Caroline Lucas tabled an Early Day Motion last month backing the security guards, which was signed by 43 MPs.

It called on the Director of Security for Parliament to “look again at this matter” and urged the parliamentary authorities to “lead by example when it comes to the employment of security staff”.

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