Walkout at 999 centre called off

Staff at Hampshire's police control centre requested a strike ballot

A 36-hour walkout by staff at Hampshire Constabulary's control centre over working conditions has been called off.

Unison members had planned action on three shifts between 17-19 July in protest at changes to shift patterns.

But the union said on Monday, following negotiations with police, a new deal has been put on the table which will now go before members.

Hampshire Police has always maintained all 999 calls would still be answered during any proposed action.

Unison is protesting at a move from a working pattern of four 12-hour shifts followed by four days off, to six 10-hour shifts followed by four days off.

It claims it would result in a loss for most employees of between £60 and £95 overtime pay per month.

In a statement Union said: "Following last minute negotiations Unison has agreed to suspend all industrial action.

"The decision to suspend the proposed industrial action has been taken as it is not possible to consult fully with all members prior to the proposed date for industrial action."

The consultation will start later this week and will last until 25 July, Unison said.

A Hampshire Police spokeswoman claimed the proposed changes would bring control room staff into line with other shift workers.