Fuel tanker drivers to vote on strike

THOUSANDS of tanker drivers who deliver fuel to petrol forecourts are to be balloted for strikes in a row over safety and terms and conditions.

Unite said its members working for seven major fuel distribution firms will vote in the coming weeks on industrial action.

The union warned that strikes could hit petrol supplies at supermarkets, garages and airports across the country.

Voting will start next week among 2,000 drivers, who account for 90 per cent of those supplying petrol to UK forecourts. Unite said there had been “unrelenting attacks” on drivers’ terms and conditions.

Matt Draper, Unite national officer, said: “For over a year we have strived to talk some sense into this industry but they have shown no genuine interest in bringing stability to the supply of this vital national commodity.”