Rolls-Royce strike threat lifted

Jerry Hicks was at the centre of the dispute

The threat of strike action at Rolls-Royce in Derby has been lifted.

Workers had considered walking out in support of union convenor Jerry Hicks, who was fired by Rolls-Royce for organising unlawful industrial action.

Mr Hicks has accepted a £100,000 settlement from the company, after his former colleagues in Bristol voted against further strike action.

Steve Wright, union convener in Derby, said the dispute had left a bitter taste for members.

He said: "I don't think anyone is happy over this. It is going to take a lot of building back industrial relations with the company.

"Everybody has been scarred by this and it won't be forgotten quickly."

Derby workers held a rally last month in support of Mr Hicks and it was thought the East Midland plant could also be hit by industrial action.

Strike action at the plant in Bristol ended after a vote by 800 balloted workers. Amicus members voted by a 118 majority not to take new action in support of Mr Hicks.

Members who had been on strike since 23 August returned to work on Monday.

The firm said: "We are content that a satisfactory agreement has been reached and normal working will be resumed."