"Honda workers face massive pay cut," says Amicus

London, April 3 -- 900 workers at Honda's Swindon factory are about to lose more than £63 a week as the company lays off of an entire shift.

Honda's announcement that they are scaling back production at their Swindon plant from the beginning of June will mean that 900 workers are about to lose a 17% pay allowance which amounts to £3,300 per annum.

The news comes in the middle of ACAS negotiations with Amicus, the manufacturing union, on pay and pension conditions at the plant.

150 to 200 temporary workers at the plant will lose their jobs to make way for the full-time Honda workers whose shifts have been cut.

Derek Simpson, Joint General Secretary of Amicus said:

"Honda’s claims that these moves are to maximise efficiency are highly dubious as are the supposed levels of loss and poor productivity at the plant.

"In fact, production levels Swindon are rising and are up 7% on last year. It demonstrates that Honda are only interested in cutting costs by slashing workers’ wages.

"Honda says it sells 'the Power Dreams' and 'is determined to maintain its harmony with the individual, the community, and the natural environment' - sadly their mission statement doesn't extend to their loyal workforce, hundreds of whom are only recently recruited."

Amicus say they are also concerned about Honda's commitment to other supply chain companies in the area including the South Marsdon Distribution Centre (SDC) where the union is attempting to secure recognition rights.

Amicus have rejected a 2.7% pay offer made by Honda. The ACAS arbitrated negotiations are due to resume next Tuesday.

Catherine Bithell on +44 (0)20 7420 8909