MEMBERS of Unite the union at the Coulport and Faslane naval bases are to suspend industrial action against their employer Babcock Marine.

The decision was taken at a meeting of Unite shop stewards and workplace representatives on Wednesday. It follows talks held in London on Monday, April 10, involving Unite general secretary Len McCluskey and senior executives from Babcock Marine.

Civilian staff at Coulport and Faslane started industrial action on March 24, after allegations that Babcock Marine were undermining workers’ rights as part of a campaign to outsource work.

A new proposed accord by Unite and Babcock Marine acknowledges that there has been a ‘breakdown in the relationship’ between management and trade unions, and makes a series of proposals to resolve the problems.

The accord will now be put to a mass meeting of Unite members on Tuesday 18 April, with a recommendation from shop stewards that it should be accepted.

Len McCluskey said: “We had constructive talks with Babcock Marine executives and are pleased that we have come to this accord.

“Without the goodwill, hard work and determination of the workers on the ground, no company can be a success. And the best employers are the ones who see workers and unions as partners for progress. Workers need to have a real say, and have the rights of their democratic organisations recognised and respected.”

Unite regional officer Stephen Deans said: “Our members at Coulport and Faslane have a real commitment to their work supporting the Royal Navy. The suspension of their industrial action is another sign of their goodwill.

“As always, it’s our members who will make the final decision on whether this accord goes far enough in meeting their concerns, but Unite believes it is a solid foundation to build a better partnership in the future.”

A spokesman for Babcock International said: "Having met jointly with our local, regional and national Unite representatives, including the Unite General Secretary, we are pleased to be taking positive and productive steps now to see an end to this dispute."