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6 November 2009

Postal strikes called off as Royal Mail and CWU reach interim agreement

The Communication Workers Union has agreed to postpone further strike action until the New Year, after reaching an interim agreement with Royal Mail management. Leaders of the CWU unanimously agreed to call off further strike action while talks take place, overseen by the arbitration service Acas and the Trades Union Congress.

Brendan Barber, the general secretary of the TUC, said the decision had been made to provide “a period of calm” in order for the two sides to reach a long-term agreement.

Business Secretary Lord Mandelson said: “It’s important that both sides now keep talking about the next phase of modernisation which is vital for the company’s future.”

A recent survey of IMRG members found that 85% believe a continued threat of postal strike action would discourage customers from shopping online during the festive season. Many e-retailers have put in place back up plans and switched to alternative delivery operators following the postal strikes last month.