By Julian Whittle

Last updated at 15:09, Friday, 29 June 2012

Carlisle MP John Stevenson has been asked to step in after workers at Cavaghan & Gray rejected the firm’s latest plans to alter terms and conditions.

John Stevenson

2 Sisters Food Group, which bought the ready-meals producer last year, asked staff to accept new over-time rates, sick pay arrangements, redundancy terms and changes to bank holiday working.

The union Usdaw balloted its members who rejected the proposals by 293 votes to 162.

Negotiations are expected to continue. Meanwhile, staff have asked Conservative Mr Stevenson to intervene.

They say the employer is threatening to impose more onerous contracts if they do not agree to the changes.

The MP said: “I am in the process of arranging a meeting with them.

“I would encourage discussions between management and unions to continue to see if a solution acceptable to both sides can be reached.

“But I am concerned that the company is looking so quickly, having just taken over the business, to seek changes.”

Mr Stevenson is chairman of the all-party Parliamentary group on food and drink manufacturing.

This is the second time workers have rejected 2 Sisters’ proposals, which affect 800 of the 1,000-strong workforce. An earlier ballot was more emphatic with 341 against the plan and 19 in favour. Jayne Shotton, Usdaw area organiser, said: “We trust the company will return to the negotiating table to address the concerns about the package so clearly raised by our members.”

The changes involve cuts to sick pay and redundancy payments, lower overtime and bank holiday pay and less paid time off for hospital appointments.

The company also wants to scrap a good-attendance bonus, an ill-health termination agreement, streamline the grievance procedure and move weekly-paid staff to monthly salaries.

A spokesman for the firm said: “We are disappointed with the rejection of these proposals, which are focused on ensuring Cavaghan & Gray can remain competitive and sustainable in a tough environment. We will now be re-engaging in the consultation process.”

2 Sisters is owned by the poultry magnate Ranjit Boparan, ranked joint 101st in The Sunday Times Rich List with a £750m fortune.

First published at 14:35, Friday, 29 June 2012
Published by http://www.cumberlandnews.co.uk