Deal reached in fuel drivers' dispute

A union representing tanker drivers reached a pay deal with employers today and cancelled a threatened strike at Shell petrol…

A union representing tanker drivers reached a pay deal with employers today and cancelled a threatened strike at Shell petrol stations in Britain, union officials said.

Hundreds of tanker drivers went on strike for four days beginning last Friday, leading to shortages in some parts of Britain. Further strikes were due to take place beginning this Friday.

The drivers work for independent hauliers, but had blamed Shell for keeping their pay down.

"We're delighted that (haulage firm) Hoyer and Unite have reached this stage in their negotiation," said James Smith, chairman of Shell UK, in a statement.

"We're pleased that the industrial action has now been suspended. We once again apologise for the inconvenience which may have been caused to our customers across the UK."

The terms of the pay deal, which were not made public, will be put to union members for a ballot. The union will recommend they be accepted.

The strike hit motorists at a time when petrol prices have been rising and led the government to institute emergency measures lifting competition regulations and issue a plea to the public to avoid panic buying.

Reuters