Passport control staff at Heathrow Airport are closer to strike action in a dispute over changes to rosters with the prospect of potential delays for travellers.
The Public and Commercial Services union (PCS) said about 400 of its members are locked in a row over new “unworkable” work rotas.
Officials said the move would stop staff being able to request certain shifts, affecting those with caring responsibilities or disabilities.
PCS general secretary Mark Serwotka said: “Imposing roster changes that will impact on members with caring responsibilities and those with disabilities is unacceptable.
“Strike action is a last resort and the Home Office needs to get back to negotiating with the union in good faith to avert industrial action at Heathrow.”
Border Force director general Paul Lincoln said: “These temporary changes involve Border Force officers working in bubbles to protect themselves and the public from coronavirus. We have been in consultation with staff and trade unions since October.
“Border Force has robust contingency plans in place to ensure any industrial action does not impact on border security.”
A spokesman said moving to the new rosters will reduce the potential number of close contacts a Border Force Officer has from up to 144 to as low as 40.
Organisations across the country have implemented similar arrangements to ensure their staff and the public are protected.
The spokesman added that industrial action would cause unnecessary disruption to travellers and the aviation industry at an already difficult time.
