ENGINEERING workers at Massey Ferguson Central Parts operation factory In Manchester have been out on strike for two weeks.
ner baes nearest saga in a series of clashes and Detween this multinational company. In the last year the Coventry factory of Massey's was twice successfully occupied against redundancy.
The issue at the Manchester factory is however about say, vital test o this strength for the unions. It vital test against background of a series of pay strikes in the North west engineers, notably GEC and Parkinson Cowan, and the Tory government's determination to impose a two per cent wage ceiling for next year.
Senior steward Dave Leonard told me:
The company has given us a final offer of £2.75 plus £115 lump sum bonus for a thirteen week period, which would involve twelve-hour shifts and Saturday/Sunday working and is only payable if company targets are reached.
GOOOS ENTRANCE Pickets at Massey Ferguson 'Last year we got usual they dangled the The company claim that they are in a serious finan cial position yet they have heavv in. vestments in recent years our factory. This time the lads then dugh a By as es said By a five.to majority, Tine mass meeting on 2 July voted to We've mounted a 24-hour picket which has prevented the removal 01 £14m worth orders. We're in for a stand here, we're not taking it'.
The stewards recognise that behind the low pay offer is an attempt to undermine union organisation. Although this pay strike since the factory was established • 3y the ago, the record workforce the support from others is rivalled by few. Only month workers walked off their jobs to attend factory gate meeting 'striking nurses.
union Steve Taylor steward speaking health workers march in Manchester said: "The issue for us is the same as for the health WOrKCIS alla
Socialist
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MASSEY FERGUSON COMMIT S MANCHES