Postal strike 'suicide' says Lord Mandelson (From Oxford Mail)

Postal strike 'suicide' says Lord Mandelson

6:00am Saturday 17th October 2009

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A POST strike in Oxfordshire would be a “suicidal” move, business Secretary Lord Mandelson, above, said yesterday during a visit to the Mini factory at Cowley to launch two new models.

The Labour peer urged postal workers to rethink plans for any further action to avoid having a “devastating” impact on people and businesses in the run-up to Christmas. He said: “I would urge postal workers in Oxfordshire to please think again before making any decisions.

“Any strike would be a suicidal move for the unions. Businesses and customers rely on the postal system, especially towards Christmas.

“It could have a devastating impact. This would drive away customers who may never return. We want to see any strikes averted at all costs.”

Paul Garraway, of the Communication Workers’ Union, said: “Lord Mandelson could step in at any time and tell the Royal Mail to negotiate, but he hasn’t.

“For him, it is all about slashing our unions.”

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