A TRADE union is to ballot its members at HM Naval Base Clyde on industrial action.

Unite members have accused Babcock Marine of attacking workers' rights at Faslane and Coulport by victimising worker representatives, withdrawing facilities for shop steward meetings, and failing to meaningfully consult and negotiate with the trade union.

The company, which has already outsourced cleaning and housekeeping at both bases, and security systems services at Coulport, is considering further outsourcing of services.

Unite regional officer Stephen Deans said: “Babcock Marine has engineered a complete breakdown of normal relations between workers and management. Our fear is that they want to try and undermine workers’ rights and make it easier for the company to cut jobs and service quality through more outsourcing."

The union represents a range of workers at the base, including cleaners, housekeepers, logistics operatives, drivers, mail staff, multi-skilled operators and a variety of trades engaged in land-based maintenance and defect repair.

The ballot will open on February 28 and close on March 9.

A spokesperson for Babcock International Group said: “We regularly engage with our trade unions on a number of topics and view any concerns that are brought to our attention as a matter of importance.

"We are currently seeking a further meeting with Unite to progress discussions.”