- Jammie Dodgers strike turns "sticky" after DHL calls cops on peaceful picketers "at least 10 times" Archived Message
Posted by sashimi
on December 22, 2020, 9:15 am
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Peter Lazenby, 21 December 2020 (quote) A Jammie Dodgers strike turned "sticky" today when logistics firm DHL was accused of "wasting police time" by calling the cops on peaceful picketers "at least 10 times." The 120 workers at the profitable Liverpool site began a series of strikes on Saturday over low pay, victimisation of workers and a complete breakdown of industrial relations. They are on DHL delivery contracts for Burton Biscuits, which makes the famous Jammie Dodgers, and AB World Foods. But carloads of police arrived at the peaceful, socially distanced picket line on Saturday - and officers have returned repeatedly after being contacted by DHL, according to Unite. The union accused DHL of "abusing already stretched police resources which could be better used ensuring that Covid-19 regulations were adhered to" and tackling crime in the area. Unite north-west regional officer Kenny Rowe said: "DHL bosses are wasting police time big time. "We have had visits by Merseyside Police with up to three police vehicles at a time. "While relations are cordial and respectful, I am sure the people of Liverpool would question the misuse of resources sparked by DHL. "DHL is abusing scarce police resources when the officers are under pressure over implementing Covid-19 regulations and the Croxteth area is suffering high levels of crime." The union noted that DHL's attempted intimidation of the strikers by calling the police was not the first use of the tactic in recent weeks. In November, striking workers at the Leeds-based Optare bus manufacturer were moved on by officers, prompting Unite to take legal action. This prompted the government to issue fresh guidance to police forces. Mr Rowe said: "DHL should respect the government guidelines issued to police forces last month that striking workers can undertake socially distanced picketing during lockdown." He accused DHL of "flagrantly relying on police to try to break a lawful dispute." Mr Rowe added: "This is in no way a criticism of Merseyside Police but a strong condemnation of the underhand tactics practised by DHL." A DHL spokesperson said that it was anxious that the pickets should maintain social distancing and be peaceful. The firm's workers began a campaign of eight 24-hour strikes on Sunday, with the last due on January 5. (/quote) -- https://morningstaronline.co.uk/article/b/jammie-dodgers-strike-turns-sticky-after-dhl-calls-cops-on-peaceful-picketers-at-least-10-times |
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