In what circumstances are we permitted to go on strike?

A strike is a form of industrial action. Although each employee will be in breach of their contract of employment, the union and its officials calling the strike will be protected against legal action, providing the strike (or other form of industrial action) has been called in accordance with the law.

This, briefly, means:

• the action is in relation to a work dispute (this would rule out action for political reasons)
• a secret postal ballot has been held
• notice has been given to the employer
• there is a majority in favour of the action
• the ballot has been independently scrutinized (if more than 50 involved)
• notice has been given of the industrial action.