BMW faces industrial action over pensions plan

Unite says the carmaker has indicated it will press ahead with plans to close the scheme, despite it putting forward affordable proposals to keep it open.

Unite the union has warned BMW that "serious industrial action will occur" involving more than 7,000 car workers if it continues with plans to close its defined benefit pension scheme by 31 May 2017.

Unite said that BMW has indicated it will press ahead with plans to close the scheme, despite the union putting forward affordable proposals to keep it open, following a consultation which Unite has branded a “sham”.

The warning from Len McCluskey, Unite general secretary, came in a letter to senior BMW managers.  He wrote: “At a recent meeting of senior Unite shop stewards from all plants, I was able to gauge the concern, frustration and anger of our members.

“It is evident that, if we do not resolve the differences that exist, then the likelihood of serious industrial action will occur.”

McCluskey added: “I am therefore suggesting that I meet with senior members of BMW management to review current positions” before concluding that he expected the company to put on hold “any timetable that the company may be working to until we meet.”

BMW has agreed to the request for a meeting, which will take place at Cowley on 20 February and involve McCluskey, Unite representatives and senior BMW managers.