Hundreds of sparks and supporters have blockaded the gates to the Blackfriars station construction site in London this morning, in the latest protest against plans by seven employers to impose new contracts which would downgrade safety and skill levels and downgrade pay for electricians by more than 30% They were also supported by people from OccupyLSX, before marching to the occupation site outside St Paul's cathedral. A national day of action has also been called for 9 November.

Balfour Beatty, who run the Blackfriars construction project, are not only the driving force behind the 35% pay cut and withdrawal from the JIB National Agreement. They are also one of the main culprits in the blacklisting of construction workers for taking part in trade union activities. Other employers are Bailey Building Services, Tommy Clarke, Crown House Technologies, Gratte Brothers, SES and Spie Matthew Hall. 

http://truth-reason-liberty.blogspot.com/2011/10/sparks-struggle-rages-on.html

http://union-news.co.uk/2011/10/unite-calls-strike-ballot-in-sparks-dispute/

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dGWNFXfinF8