Civil Servants Threaten Strike Over Office Return
Civil servants working for the Office for National Statistics are considering industrial action if asked to resume office work instead of continuing with remote work from home.
Office for National Statistics (ONS) Staff Discontent
Employees at the ONS have been working remotely since the lockdown started in 2020 and are in favor of maintaining the option to work from home full-time. However, government officials are pushing for a return to the office for at least three days a week.
Minister’s Controversial Stance on Remote Work
Jacob Rees-Mogg, the government efficiency minister, criticized the proposed strike, deeming it as an attempt to avoid being in the office. Rees-Mogg was reported to have visited vacant offices, leaving notes for employees who were working from home, expressing regret for not seeing them in person.
Union’s Response to Return-to-Office Policy
Fran Heathcote, the general secretary of PCS, expressed disappointment with the ONS leadership for imposing the return-to-office policy without consulting with the staff. Heathcote urged the management to reconsider the decision and engage in discussions with the union to find a mutual agreement that benefits all parties involved.
Growing Support for Industrial Action
A significant number of ONS employees have indicated their support for industrial action, with nearly three-quarters of the staff voting in favor in a recent poll conducted by their union. The voter turnout barely reached the required threshold for a valid ballot, standing at approximately 50%.
By addressing the concerns of the ONS workforce and fostering open communication between the management and employees, a harmonious resolution can be achieved to prevent any disruptions in the organization’s operations.