GAS distribution to homes in the Watford area, and non-emergency gas work, could be affected when gas workers go on strike on Monday, November 5.

About 550 workers, who are members of the GMB union and work as emergency gas engineers in transmission, pipe laying and repair for Transco.

They have voted for strike action over pay allowances.

But despite emergency gas workers going on strike, Transco has said emergency work will not be affected at all and all emergency calls would still be attended.

But, a spokesman said, some non-emergency works might have to be re-scheduled.

The workers' dispute lies with the current level of London allowances which in some cases are only £650 more than workers in the north of Scotland and England, or Cornwall.

Gas workers must live within an hour's travelling time of their workplace as a condition of employment and many workers, therefore, must live in the most expensive parts of the country.

However, many feel they are not adequately compensated for doing so.

Mr Ed Blissett, a GMB senior organiser, said: "We are currently working with senior staff at Transco to see if it is possible to reach an agreement.

"If we feel we are making progress before Monday, we will call the strike off.

"But, so far, it looks as though we will be going ahead on Monday.

"We don't know if they will get scabs in but the distribution of gas will be affected.

"I have not seen workers strike against Transco (formerly British Gas) for more than a decade.

"We have more strikes planned, but hopefully will reach a resolution before then.

"We have got a just claim by members.

"The cost of living in Watford is not the same as living in Gateshead.

"That has got to be reflected in the allowances."

The strike will affect the south of Hertfordshire, parts of Bedfordshire, Berkshire, Buckinghamshire and Essex and all parts of London north of the Thames.

A written statement from Transco said: "We are extremely disappointed members of the GMB are proposing to take strike action over a claim for additional allowances for those in our North London area particularly when we have offered them an overall package that will bring them in line with market rates.

"We are continuing to meet and talk with the GMB's North London regional office and have offered to go independent arbitration.

"We hope the strike action can be averted but, if it does go ahead, we have robust plans in place to make sure North London's gas emergency service is not affected by the local GMB's actions."

If no agreements can be reached between the GMB and Transco, several dates between now and Christmas have been reserved for further strike action.

Transco said that if needed residents should still make emergency gas calls by telephoning the hotline on 0800 111 999.

November 6, 2001 10:30