Striking workers will keep it civil

CIVIL servants in Oldham were due to stage a strike today to protest against cuts to pay, pensions and jobs.

More than 400 members of the Public and Commercial Services union were urged to walk out at lunchtime and strike for the final four hours of the day. This could include more than 350 staff at the Department of Work and Pensions in the Oldham’s Jobcentre Plus, and in the Benefits Centre.

Workers at the magistrates’ court could also leave early as part of the strike.

The move follows a one-day walkout on March 20.

PCS North-West regional secretary Peter Middleman said: “We hope this serves as a reminder of the need to listen to our reasonable demands and return to the negotiating table.”

The PCS has more than 17,000 members across Greater Manchester.