It was good to catch-up with JDE Banbury Plant Director, Rob Williams, this morning. I’m pleased to hear that after two-weeks of meaningful negotiations, an agreement has been reached with Unite. This is a very positive step forward given the uncertainty associates have faced for months.
I understand that associates have been asked to vote on the proposals through the union’s formal ballot process. The ballot opens on Monday 26 July and will conclude by Friday 6 August. JDE management will run briefings to talk through the terms of the deal and the union committee will also organise drop-in sessions and run the voting process.
I remain hopeful that this agreement will provide associates with terms and conditions of employment that they are happy with while securing the future of the factory. I hope to meet BEIS Minister, Paul Scully, next week to discuss fire and rehire practices, as well as updating him on progress with JDE.
