BMW re-vote on UK pay deal

The new BMW Mini will go on sale later this year

Workers at a BMW factory in the UK, where the new Mini will be built, are to hold a fresh ballot on a two-year pay and productivity deal.

The deal was narrowly rejected by staff at the Cowley plant a week ago, despite being recommended to the workers by their union.

BMW's offer

Basic 4% pay rise in the first year

3% in the second year

More flexible working conditions, including weekend shifts and performance-related pay

BMW claims it will make the Cowley workforce among the best paid car workers in Europe, giving pay rises of at least 10% over two years, including extra shift allowances.

But some workers are believed to be unhappy about more flexible working schedules, including Saturday production, designed to boost productivity up to the level of BMW plants in Germany.

'Company pleased'

The second ballot follows two days of intensive talks between BMW management, unions and shop stewards at the Oxfordshire plant.

A spokesman for the Transport and General Workers Union said: "In a meeting at the BMW Group Plant Oxford [Cowley] this afternoon [Tuesday], trade union members voted for a reballot on the proposed terms and conditions offer.

"The company was pleased that the workforce will have another opportunity to consider the offer which remains unchanged by the company.

"We believe the ballot will take place early next week."

BMW said reports that it was threatening to close the factory because of the dispute were "absolutely untrue".

The proposed pay deal was rejected by 51% in last week's vote.