Hundreds of Hinkley workers suspended amid dispute

Hundreds of workers at Hinkley Point C have been suspended after taking part in what their employer described as "unofficial industrial action".

Staff constructing the nuclear power station near Bridgwater in Somerset walked out due to concerns about an "alleged dangerous [crane] lift", GMB union said.

They were told not to come into work on Wednesday after striking on Tuesday, and are expected to return on Monday. Other staff have continued working as normal.

A Hinkley Point C spokesperson said an investigation into an incident involving the lift on Monday found there had been "no risk to personnel at any stage".

The suspended staff belong to MEH Alliance – a group of companies carrying out mechanical, electrical, heating, ventilation and air conditioning works at the power station.

As well as taking issue with the crane lift, the workers have also raised concerns about the location of clocking-in stations, GMB union said.

The union has said there does not seem to be much evidence to support the allegations regarding the lift.

The Hinkley Point C spokesperson said: "There are well established processes with trade unions to resolve workplace concerns and unofficial action is not acceptable.

"We are working with our trades union partners and MEH management team to encourage a return to work following these agreed processes."

Charlotte Brumpton-Childs, GMB national secretary, said the union was working to resolve the issues.

"When work recommences on Monday, unions on site will be talking to members about the procedure and process to challenge any unfair deduction of wages," she said.

Unite regional officer Heathcliffe Pettifer said the union was "actively working to bring the situation to a satisfactory resolution".

Developer EDF Energy began construction work on the nuclear power station in 2017.

It is hoped the site will open in 2031 and power up to six million homes.

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