Employees of the Mayor of London’s policing office are preparing to strike for three consecutive days in response to pay disputes.
Members of the Public and Commercial Services (PCS) union working at the Mayor’s Office for Policing and Crime (MOPAC) will walk out on February 24, 25, and 26, following a vote in which 90% supported the strike action.
Concerns Over Pay Increase
The union expressed dissatisfaction with a 2% pay increase for the 2025–26 fiscal year, which they argue represents a real-terms reduction and is the lowest pay adjustment within the Greater London Authority (GLA) group.
A representative from MOPAC stated that the organization is „committed to maintaining competitive pay terms,“ but emphasized the need to balance this commitment with the responsibility to manage Londoners‘ finances prudently.
Disparities in Pay Increases
The PCS highlighted that other GLA entities have received more substantial pay raises, including a 4.2% increase for the Metropolitan Police, 3.2% for London Assembly staff, and 2.5% for core GLA City Hall employees.
Union officials criticized the „imposed 2% pay award,“ claiming it has established a „two-tier pay system“ that places MOPAC staff at a disadvantage, despite their crucial role in overseeing policing and ensuring public safety.
MOPAC staff are responsible for monitoring the Metropolitan Police, formulating policies on violence against women and girls, commissioning victim services, and developing community safety strategies.
Union’s Position on Strike Action
Fran Heathcote, general secretary of the PCS, remarked, „No one desires safer streets in London more than the workers who are committed to achieving this goal, but they need to feel valued and secure financially. Undervaluing our members undermines the very systems designed to keep Londoners safe. Strike action is always a last resort, but our members are ready to stand firm for the fair pay they deserve.“
MOPAC defended the 2% pay increase, stating it was determined „during a period of significant financial pressure that necessitated cuts to our workforce and expenditures,“ and noted that it followed six months of negotiations with the PCS union. The organization indicated it would continue discussions with PCS representatives in an effort to resolve the ongoing dispute.
Bildquelle: Bildquelle: Dina Badamshina auf Unsplash
