PETROL pumps could run dry in a row over pay, Unite has warned ahead of “make or break talks” today.

The union is holding discussions with the management of delivery company DHL in an attempt to avert strike action in the dispute, which centres on a driver who had his wages docked after he was involved in an accident.

Unite claims that the accident was not the driver’s fault. Nineteen workers who deliver petrol and diesel to 55 Morrisons supermarkets are being balloted for industrial action which could take place from February 4.

Unite regional officer Paul Travers accused DHL management of failing to recognise the “grossly unfair treatment of our member” who the union claim has lost over £5,000 in earnings.

“We estimate that stores will only have one day’s stock so will run ‘dry’ very quickly, if the dispute runs over a few days.

“Customers of Morrisons seeking fuel could therefore be seriously affected.”