Probation officers vote in favour of strike action » Communities » 24dash.com

The Government was facing a clash with probation officers today after they voted to support industrial action in a row over pay.

The National Association of Probation Officers, which represents almost 10,000 staff in England and Wales, said 94% of its members indicated support for industrial action in protest at the removal of incremental pay rises it said was worth up to 2.5%.

General secretary Jonathan Ledger said: "Napo members have given probation employers a very clear message with this ballot result. The fact that 94% support industrial action reflects their anger and frustration at the way they are being treated by their employers.

"We still hope that we can resolve this dispute through negotiations but, if necessary, members have shown their readiness to take industrial action including strike action."

Another ballot will have to be held before industrial action is taken, but Napo officials said they expected another big yes vote unless the row is resolved.

Napo leaders will join officials from the Prison Officers Association and the Public and Commercial Services union, which are also in dispute over pay, in a joint rally in Westminster next week.

Probation officers have not taken industrial action for over 20 years.

Justice Secretary Jack Straw said: "I hope the industrial action does not take place.

"I'm also happy to talk to Napo and if they want to come and discuss the latest recommendation I am happy to do so.

"They have always had concerns about particularly their pay, which I understand.

"We are in a period where after considerable improvements in public sector pay everyone is having to accept that there is less money available.

"That is just true."

Asked what effects industrial action could have on public confidence in community sentences, he added: "I don't want to get there. I hope that it does not take place."

Liberal Democrat justice spokesman David Howarth said: "I have every sympathy with the probation service, which has been undermined for far too long.

"However, industrial action rarely solves the underlying problems.

"I hope the Government moves to settle the dispute as soon as possible."