Further BMW engine strike action called off after new pay deal

Disruption to UK Mini production has been limited after staff at BMW Hams Hall called off a planned strike following a new pay deal.

More than 600 workers took strike action towards the end February, but strikes scheduled for March 4, 5, 6, 25, 28, as well as April 1, 2, 8, 9, 15 and 27 have now been cancelled.

The workers were in dispute with BMW following nearly year long negotiations over the 2024 pay increase with the company.

BMW’s Hams Hall plant predominantly produces engines for use at the company’s Mini production site in Oxford.

The workers, comprising nearly 90% of the Hams Hall factory workforce, are in dispute following nearly year long negotiations over the 2024 pay increase with the company.

A new pay deal was secured by UK union Unite after the 600 workers voted in favour of a 3.5% pay rise.

Unite said the deal had improved on previous offers because it left the workers’ bonus arrangements untouched.

Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: "By taking strike action, BMW’s Hams Hall staff ensured they received an acceptable pay rise and prevented their bonuses from being eroded.

"Defending and improving our members’ jobs, pay and conditions is always Unite’s top priority."