MACLELLAN INTERNATIONAL

That this House notes with great concern the actions of MacLellan International towards the staff employed as security guards on three sites at Government offices in the North East of England; is concerned at MacLellan's imposition of a wage rise of 13 pence per hour, giving security guards an hourly rate of £5.23, much less than they were promised for undertaking extra training; further notes that as a result of MacLellan's refusal to correspond, meet or negotiate with the PCS Union, a ballot for industrial action provided a nine to one vote in favour; further notes that a 36 hour stoppage took place at three sites on 25th to 27th April 2006; condemns the statement of MacLellan that `they do not discuss pay with the Unions'; and calls upon the Government to refuse to let contracts to companies like MacLellan who do not recognise trade unions.