Around 450 Wilson James Heathrow workers, who provide assistance to passengers with restricted mobility (PRM), are threatening industrial action as they demand pay parity with their Gatwick colleagues.
The UK’s leading union, Unite, said workers are frustrated at being paid an average of 9.5 per cent less than Wilson James staff at Gatwick who are performing the same role. The ballot for strike action closes on 20 March with the action expected to impact PRM services across the entire airport.
“There is absolutely no justification for Wilson James paying its Heathrow workers significantly less than its Gatwick staff doing the same job,” said Sharon Graham, Unite Secretary General.
She added that both Wilson James and Heathrow are extremely wealthy. Wilson James reported gross profits of GBP35.4 million for the year ending July 2024, with the company’s gross turnover increasing by 17.78 per cent from 2023. Meanwhile, Heathrow reported a pre-tax profit of GBP696 million in the nine months to 30 September 2024.
“The money is there to close the pay gap – Unite will support our members 100 per cent to ensure that happens,” warned Graham.
While Unite regional officer Martin West noted there is still time to avoid industrial action, he emphasised that the pressure is on Wilson James to respond with an acceptable pay offer.
“Heathrow is thriving and we urge the airport’s management to step in and ensure that its Wilson James workers are properly compensated for their hard work,” he concluded.
Image source: London Heathrow
