IT IS beyond belief that BT workers who are keeping us connected during this pandemic are now being made compulsorily redundant. 

BT’s Enterprise Division made the first compulsory redundancy in May after signalling that 367 workers were at risk. This was followed with BT’s Technology Division announcing some 200 job losses in July. 

BT Technology announced last week a further 112 jobs to go under a second phase. Openreach, BT’s wholly owned profitable subsidiary, acknowledges that Britain will see the biggest economic slump in 300 years, while it also claims to be stronger than ever. Under current plans, London and the South East will see all Openreach’s higher-paid desk-based jobs disappear - many of which have been haemorrhaging offshore.

A section of our membership in Openreach have shown overwhelming support for industrial action. In addition, in a consultative ballot, members in BT Technology voted by 84 per cent to 16 per cent in support of action. 

The CWU is now set to consult its whole BT membership in a consultative ballot. It is vital that all BT members show solidarity and support in a Yes vote, sending a clear message to the company that they are prepared to act in defence of their jobs and livelihoods.

Bill Dixon 
CWU London BT Committee
Openreach Regional Co-ordinator