Maple Leaf dispute

Workers at Maple Leaf bakery in Walsall were to announce the result of their ballot as Socialist Worker went to press.

Some 120 out of the 200 BFAWU bakers’ union members are refusing to sign new contracts that reduce pay, holidays and overtime.

They fear bosses could start sacking them within weeks—unless they are forced to back down by hard-hitting action.

Union official John Higgins said, “Some workers have been put on a week’s notice already.

“We are hoping it won’t come to a strike but we will support whatever the shop floor wants to do.”