Home Sea MOD addresses impact of RFA strikes, seeks resolution

RFA Replenishment at Sea Trials Merlin Mk2, from 814 NAS, conducted a photographic exercise (PHOTEX) of RFA Tideforce (A139) and RFA Tidesurge (A138), with RFA Fort Victoria (A387) off the South West Coast. The Tide class tankers were conducting replenishment at sea trials (RAS). Image: LPhot Paul Hall

MOD addresses impact of RFA strikes, seeks resolution

October 10, 2024

Jayne Kirkham, the Labour MP for Truro and Falmouth, raised a written question on 9 October 2024 concerning the ongoing industrial action involving the Royal Fleet Auxiliary (RFA).

Her question asked the Ministry of Defence (MOD) to assess the impact of the strikes on the RFA, the Royal Navy, and the Royal Marines, and to outline the steps being taken to resolve the dispute.

Responding on behalf of the MOD, Luke Pollard, the Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, stated: “The Ministry of Defence (MOD) continues to engage with the Maritime Trade Unions (MTUs), who represent members of the Royal Fleet Auxiliary (RFA), to discuss a resolution to the ongoing RFA pay dispute.”

He also mentioned the MOD’s approach of employing a whole force model that integrates military, civilian, and contracted personnel.

Pollard added: “We continue to proactively collaborate with our stakeholders and partners to sustain outputs whilst discussions with the MTUs remain ongoing.”

The RFA, which plays a crucial role in providing logistical and replenishment support to Royal Navy operations, has been impacted by strikes since early 2024.

The core of the dispute involves demands from unions, including Nautilus International and the RMT, for pay increases that keep pace with inflation, as they argue that real-term wages have fallen over recent years. Industrial actions such as work slowdowns and strikes have taken place, including a notable one-day strike in August 2024.

Pollard noted that while the MOD continues its efforts to resolve the pay dispute, they are also focused on mitigating the impact of strike action to maintain the Royal Navy’s operational readiness. He highlighted the importance of ensuring the continuity of vital maritime commitments even as negotiations progress.