Felixstowe port workers reject new pay offer in talks ahead of strike
Workers are still set to walk out of eight days later this month
Talks aimed at averting strikes by workers at the Port of Felixstowe have failed to resolve a dispute over pay.
Members of the Unite union are set to walk out for eight days from August 21.
Felixstowe is the UK's biggest container port.
The port authority said it offered a Ă‚ÂŁ500 lump sum on top of a 7% pay rise during talks on Monday.
A spokesman said: "We are disappointed and regret that, despite our best efforts, we have still been unable to reach an agreement with the hourly branch of Unite.
"During talks yesterday the port further improved its position, offering a Ă‚ÂŁ500 lump sum in addition to 7%.
"The staff branch of Unite and the Police Federation of Felixstowe Dock and Railway Company have agreed to put a similar offer to their members.
"In contrast, the hourly branch of Unite has again rejected the port's improved position and refused to put it to its members.
"We urge them to consult their members on the latest offer as soon as possible. There will be no winners from a strike which will only result in their members losing money they would otherwise have earned.
"Our focus has been to find a solution that works for our employees and protects the future success of the port. The union has rejected the company's offer to meet again."